31.   But those concerns appear to have eased, and the possibility of anyone being replaced seems remote, leaving one opening on the Olympic team.

32.   The absence of weary superpowers left openings for Asia, Africa and even North America.

33.   The selections were mostly based on the finish at the Russian national championships, but the federation left some openings.

34.   McCurry left an opening, nonetheless, for unforeseen circumstances.