The United States has resumed its customary place as Olympic men's 4x400 relay champion.
LaShawn Merritt brought the U.S. home ahead of the field in the 4x400 relay Saturday night, its 17th Olympic title in the event.
The Americans had to hold off Botswana for much of the race, with Gil Roberts surviving a harrowing exchange to start the third leg and getting the baton to Merritt, who pulled away over the final 60 meters.
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The U.S. team that also featured Arman Hall and Tony McQuay came home in 2 minutes, 57.