LONDON (AP) — Britain’s men’s gymnastics team kicked off the London Olympics in a big way Saturday, upsetting defending Olympic and world champion China to take the early lead in qualifying.
Louis Smith’s spectacular pommel horse routine capped an outstanding day for the British, who have their first full team at an Olympics since 1992. His 15.8 gave Britain a total of 272.420, almost 2.5 points ahead of China (269.985). When the final standings were flashed on the scoreboard, the crowd at the O2 Arena roared and Smith, the team captain, slapped hands with Sam Oldham.
Beijing and world runner-up Japan and the United States go later Saturday, as do Germany and Russia. Team finals are Monday.
