OAKLAND (CBS/AP) — Twins Grant and Ross James have always taken parallel paths in life.

From their early days as bouncing Boy Scouts to the demanding journey of becoming Eagle Scouts, from their days as national champion shooters and, eventually, top-notch rowers each studying engineering at Wisconsin, these two have been side by side.

Both knew that could end as they chased their Olympic dream. One might make it while the other stayed home.

Then, Ross landed the last seat in the U.S. eight boat that landed the final spot in the eight-country Olympic field.

They’re off to London as Olympic teammates and thrilled — along with their proud mother, Cindy James-Warren, who raised them on her own. Had things gone differently just a few months back, the brothers wouldn’t be together now.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed)