Kurbatova edges Yilin in first qualifying session at world gymnastics championships

Kurbatova, Yilin go 1-2 in gymnastics qualifying

LONDON — Ekaterina Kurbatova of Russia leads after the first of five qualifying sessions at the world gymnastics championships, edging Olympic bronze medalist Yang Yilin.

Kurbatova, somewhat of a surprise all-arounder, finished with 55.950 points Wednesday. Yilin, the only medalist from Beijing competing here with Olympic champion Nastia Liukin and runner-up Shawn Johnson taking breaks, struggled much of the day and had 55.500 points.

All-around favorites Bridget Sloan and Rebecca Bross of the United States compete in later sessions Wednesday, as does Kurbatova’s teammate, European champion Ksenia Semenova.