TOKYO (AP) — The U.S. kids were more than all right, responding to the loss of Beijing Olympic captain Alicia Sacramone with a commanding display that gave them first place in qualifying Saturday at the world gymnastics championships.
The Americans finished with 234.253 points, almost four points ahead of Olympic champion China. They didn’t have a single fall, and finished with the highest scores on uneven bars, floor exercise and vault. U.S. champ Jordyn Wieber leads the all-around standings, more than a point ahead of Yao Jinnan, while Aly Raisman is third.
Defending champion Russia competes later Saturday.
The top eight squads secure spots in next summer’s London Olympics, and also will compete in Tuesday’s team finals.
