ETON DORNEY – The United States finished fourth Wednesday in the men’s eight rowing competition, the event long considered the crown jewel of the Olympic rowing regatta.

The American crew – which includes twin brothers Grant and Ross James of DeKalb – came from last after the first 1,000 meters to nearly capture the bronze spot in the final sprint. It missed .3 seconds.

The reigning world champion German team, which has not lost in three years, took the gold. Canada and Great Britain finished second and third, respectively.