London was buzzing with excitement with some notable efforts in track and field on Wednesday.

It was a big day for American women in track and field, as Allyson Felix won the gold in the 200 meters with a time of 21.88, while Carmelita Jeter took the bronze. Jamaica's Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce earned the silver.

It was a strong day on the U.S. men's side, as well, as Ashton Eaton broke Bill Toomey's 44-year-old record in the 100-meter dash and has built a commanding lead over fellow American Trey Hardee following the opening three events.

In the 110-meter hurdles, American Aries Merritt earned the gold with a time of 12.92 seconds, while compatriot and world champion Jason Richardson took the silver in 13.04. Jamaica's Hansle Parchment received the bronze for his time of 13.12.

Dayron Robles, who won gold in 2008, didn't finish the race as the Cuban clutched his right hamstring midway through the race.

In basketball, Spain held off France in a tight and contentious battle, 66-59. With 23 seconds remaining, France's Nicolas Batum had to be restrained after some tight fouls created some heated exchanges between the two squads. Cameras caught the Portland Trail Blazers' forward delivering a cheap shot on Juan Carlos Navarro.

In two rivalry games, Russia defeated Lithuania, while Argentina defeated Brazil to advance to the semifinals. Team USA face Australia in the late game.

In a major upset, Italy defeated the U.S. in men's volleyball, as the defending champions were knocked out in straight sets in the quarterfinals, 28-26, 25-20, 25-20. The other two matches ended in straight sets as well, as Brazil defeated neighbor Argentina, and Russia advanced to the semifinals with a victory over Poland.

The U.S. also got knocked out in men's water polo, as Croatia moved on to the semifinals with an 8-2 victory. The Croats are joined by former Yugoslavia republics Montenegro and Serbia, along with Italy, making a quartet of nations that border one another.

In men's team table tennis, China defeated South Korea in straight sets for the gold, while Germany held off Hong Kong to earn the bronze.

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