BEIJING - 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.

Anne-Caroline Chausson (L) of France competes in the women's BMX cycling, August 22, 2008. Chausson won the gold medal in the event. [BOCOG]

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.