Punishing Success, Olympics-Style

Imagine an athletically talented young woman who has committed blood, sweat, tears and countless hours to her gymnastic training. She finally qualifies for her nation's Olympic team, and during the event qualifications at the Olympic Games she places in the top 24, placing her in the individual all-around competition - a life's achievement, right?

Except two of her fellow team mates placed higher and the competition's governing body, the Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique (FIG), has a "two qualifier per nation" rule. Sorry, guess you have to wait four years and try again - if you can.

Oh, did I forget to mention that this happened to four young women - three of whom are Anastasia Grishina of Russia, Jennifer Pinches of Great Britain, and Yao Jinnan of China?