US breezes through Olympic in women's gymnastics

(AP) US breezes through Olympic in women’s gymnastics
LONDON

The Americans breezed through qualifying in women’s gymnastics Sunday, throwing down a challenge to Russia, Romania and defending Olympic champion China in the process.

For Jordyn Wieber, there won’ be a chance to add an Olympic gold medal to a world title.

The Americans finished with 181.863 points and have a big lead atop the standings, though the Russians, 2010 world champions and runners-up last year, Romanians and Chinese must still compete. The team final is Tuesday night.

Wieber was only the third-best American behind Aly Raisman and Gabby Douglas, and countries are limited to two in the all-around final.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

LONDON (AP) _ Italy leads after the early qualifying sessions in women’s gymnastics, though it is sure to be a brief stay atop the standings with the United States, Russia, Romania and China still to come.

The Italians finished Sunday with 168.397 points, more than 1.5 points ahead of Australia. Brazil is third.

The top eight teams make Tuesday’s final.

In the individual standings, 2006 world champion Vanessa Ferrari has the best score.