U.S. wins only silver medal in men's 400 hurdles

LONDON – Four years after sweeping the podium in the men's 400-meter hurdles, the United States managed only a silver medal in the event on Monday night.

American Michael Tinsley chased but could not catch Felix Sanchez of the Dominican Republic for gold (47.63 seconds). Javier Culson of Puerto Rico finished third (48.10). Tinsley, a graduate of Jackson State who is competing in his first Olympics, clocked a personal best of 47.91. His veteran teammates did not fare as well.

It was a disappointing result for USA's two-time gold medalist Angelo Taylor, who faded in the stretch and finished fifth in 48.25. Taylor won gold in Beijing in 2008 and in Sydney in 2000. Kerron Clement, the silver medalist in Beijing, was eighth this time around (49.15).

Sanchez extended his winning streak in the event to 44 races. He won this race handily enough that he could afford to stick his tongue out while crossing the finish line.

America's men are still searching for their first gold medal in track and field at these Games.

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