French wins 1st BMX gold at Olympics

Anne-Caroline Chausson of France poses on the podium during the awarding ceremony of Cycling BMX women's at the Beijing Olympic Games in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. Anne-Caroline Chausson of France won the gold with 35.976 seconds. (Xinhua/Hou Deqiang)

Anne-Caroline Chausson (front) of France competes during Cycling BMX women's final run at the Beijing Olympic Games in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. (Xinhua/Zhang Duo)

BEIJING, Aug. 22 (Xinhua) -- Anne Caroline Chausson of France claimed the first-ever BMX Olympic gold, winning the women's BMX final at the Beijing Games here on Friday.

The French woman, who used to be a mountain biker, thundered home in the fastest time of 35.976 seconds to take the gold of the sport who made its Olympic debut in Beijing.

Her compatriot Laetitia Le Corguille took the silver in 38.042, while the bronze medal went to Jill Kintner of the United States in 38.674.

The defending world champion Shanaze Reade of Britain crashed again in the final and did not finish the race.

Despite a flying start, Reade had a heavy crash in the first heat to be placed last in the first run. However, she demonstrated her speed and skills in the last two runs, finishing second and first apiece with the fastest time of 36.699 seconds, which guaranteed her a place in the eight-women finals.

Chinese Ma Liyun, the host's solo contender who competed in her first Olympics with a wildcard, only finished 7th place in the first heat of the semifinals.