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Los Angeles Times
Los Angeles Times
Sport
John Cherwa

Thursday's best bets

Gymnastics

Tuesday was Simone Biles welcome-to-the-world party and Thursday will be her coronation. The U.S. women's team established itself as a dominant force in gymnastics and every team needs a leader. That's where Biles comes in. Along with Aly Raisman, Biles will attempt to win the all-around competition, where every gymnast must compete in all four disciplines. Expect the U.S. to have two spots on the medal stand.

Swimming

Katie Ledecky may be the hot name, but Michael Phelps and Ryan Lochte is the rivalry. They will square off for the last time in the 200 individual medley. Phelps is in better condition and will probably beat his teammate but it closes the book on a matchup that has been thrilling for years. The only question about Ledecky is whether she will set a world record in the 800 freestyle qualifying and another in the final Friday.

Golf

It was supposed to be the new marquee event. Instead it became the home of derision as some of the world's best golfers decided to stay home. Many cited fears of the Zika virus, although insiders believe that an Olympic medal just wasn't that important to some golfers. The course has an abundance of wildlife, giving TV the shots it craves.

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