Sweep! American Women Finish 1-2-3 in 100-Meter Hurdles in Rio

Three American women made Olympic history in Rio de Janeiro Wednesday, finishing first, second and third in the 100-meter hurdles. Americans Brianna Rollins, Nia Ali and Kristi Castlin grabbed gold, silver and bronze, respectively, in the event.

Americans Kristi Castlin, Brianna Rollins and Nia Ali celebrate their medals sweep in the 100-meter hurdles. (Image source: YouTube)

How rare was this podium-dominating win? Since 1904, American athletes have accomplished a medals sweep at Olympic events 61 times.

But before Wednesday night, only American men had managed to pull off the sweep.

Rollins' gold medal win and Ali's silver medal finish were obvious to all who watched the race; however, the race for bronze saw two runners approaching the finish at the same time.

Americans Kristi Castlin, Brianna Rollins and Nia Ali come in first, second and third in the 100-meter hurdles. (Image source: YouTube)

As Rollins and Ali celebrated their medals, Castlin stared at the scoreboard, hoping for good news. Almost 30 seconds after the race ended, the news flashed on the scoreboard — Kristi Castlin's lean pushed her body across the line ahead of the competition, earning her the bronze medal and completing the American sweep.

Watch the race:

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