In pictures: New bike track proves a hit with riders at world event
· Yahoo Sports
A new bike track in the south of Scotland been credited with creating the "perfect atmosphere" for a world championship qualifier at the weekend.
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The Dalbeattie pump track - a cycling circuit of loops, bumps and turns - was built at a cost of more than £700,000 as part of the wider £8m Rocks and Wheels redevelopment of a former school building.
Organisers Velosolutions said Scotland had "put on a show" for its event.
In addition to the bike track a 52-bed bunkhouse, 100-seat cafe, indoor bouldering facility and community rooms for hire are part of the development.
Pump tracks are a mix of bumps, loops and twists and turns [Pete Scullion]Velosolutions said riders from 10 different nations had lined up.
It praised the passionate spectators and outstanding local organisers creating the perfect atmosphere for a day of close racing.
The track helps riders - from beginners to the more expert - to perfect their skills [Pete Scullion]The women's competition saw Slovakia's Kristína Madarásová rise to the top of a strong international field and secure her place at the world championships in Beijing.
She saw off France's Lauryne Sutur in second place with Sweden's Felicia Klingström completing the podium.
The track is part of the wider £8m Rocks and Wheels project [Pete Scullion]The men's field delivered some of the tightest racing of the day.
Sweden's Albin Johansson won by just 0.132 seconds to take the spot in China ahead of Axel Durand of France.
Slovakia's Daniel Hradský finished third.
Hosts Rocks and Wheels said it had been an "amazing weekend".
"This has been an awesome way to open our new track with the UCI pump track world championships qualifiers," it said.
"It was awesome seeing the pump track being used.
"We hope the juniors who took part in the coaching sessions enjoyed it and picked up some crucial tips."