Anna Kozlova and Tuesday Middaugh placed fourth in duet Tuesday, ending the United States' incredible run of capturing a medal in every synchronized event since it became an Olympic sport in Los Angeles 16 years ago. The eight Americans began the free routine in fifth place after a synchronization blunder marred their train-themed technical routine, which accounts for 35 percent. The judges disagreed, scoring the United States no higher than 9.7 on technique and artistic impression. Pease-Olson, who earned a gold medal in Atlanta, said the Americans were better than they were four years ago. The free routine, worth 65 percent of the final score, is more creative than the technical portion, in which teams are required to perform identical movements.
Teams can perform any lifts, throws and configurations they want in the five-minute free.
The team event was added to the Olympic program in Atlanta. Copyright 2000 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. All Rights Reserved.