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Published on December 7, 2007

Only the gold and silver were awarded as only three nations took part in the women's event, which was held on the 75-degree slope mountain. 

Entering the race with bad news that riders in the men's team missed the gold, the 19-year-old Suttayanun brushed aside all pressure from her home crowd to cross the line with her personal best of 4.33.934.

"I didn't think about anything else during the contest, but only to do my best. The track was quite slippery and my concentration helped me a lot today," said Suttayanun, who just returned to training three days ago due to a shoulder injury.

"My grandfather is my inspiration and I attributed my success and the gold to him."

The other Thai in the race, Ausanee Pradapyard, who made her first appearance in the Games after a five-year break, came second in 4.41.932 to take the silver.

"I'm happy with my form today. The medal is not important as my record has improved," said the 23-year-old Ausanee.

Earlier, Thailand's Sitthichai Ketkaewmanee, who was in impressive form in the seeding phase on Wednesday, had to be content with the bronze. He finished third with a time of more than four minutes.

"I lost my balance as I stumbled at the stone. It caused me to lose my composure and waste time. But I did my best," said

the 27-year-old rider.

This was his first medal in four appearances in his national career.

His teammate Wisit Phuengnoi came fourth, four seconds behind him.

Rising star Joey Barba of the Philippines edged past Popo Ariyo Sejati of Indonesia to snatch the gold in his debut in the Games with a time of 3.59.380.

Two gold medals are up for grabs in the men's and women's cross country at the same venue today.

Somporn Suphop

 The Nation

Nakhon Ratchasima