The United States won each of the first three Olympics softball tournaments, with three different silver medalists. A look back
GOLD United States
SILVER China
BRONZE Australia
Recap: In the first Olympic softball tournament, the U.S. Went 6-1 (losing to Australia in 10 innings) in the preliminary round, then beating China in the gold-medal game 3-1 behind the pitching of Michelle Granger and a disputed home run by Dot Richardson.
GOLD United States
SILVER Japan
BRONZE Australia
Recap: The most closely contested Olympics softball tournament took place in Sydney. There were eight extra-inning games in the tournament. Japan rolled to a 7-0 record in the preliminary round and the United States struggled to a 4-3 record, but slipped into the last spot in the medal round. There, the Americans beat China 3-0, Australia 1-0 and Japan 2-1 in eight innings to win the gold.
GOLD United States
SILVER Australia
BRONZE Japan
Recap: The Americans dominated more than ever, and didn't even give up a run in the seven games of the preliminary round, outscoring opponents 41-0. Lisa Fernandez pitched the semifinals and the finals to lead the U.S. To a 5-1 victory in the gold-medal game.
Qualifying teams: China, United States, Japan, Australia, Canada, Netherlands, Chinese Taipei, Venezuela.
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