PARIS: France picked up their second gold medal at the track cycling world championships on home soil when Marie-Divine Kouame claimed the 500 metres title on Saturday The 20-year-old Kouame clocked 32.835 seconds — the only rider under 33 seconds — to finish ahead of Germany’s Emma Hinze, who had the best time in the qualifications. China’s Yufang Guo took third place. No Frenchwoman had won the 500m title since Felicia Ballanger in 1999 in Berlin. Kouame’s triumph came a day after compatriot Mathilde Gros stunned the mighty Germans in the individual sprint. Ethan Hayter of Britain retained his title in the omnium event as Benjamin Thomas added a silver medal to France’s tally with New Zealand’s Aaron Gate taking bronze. German Franziska Brausse won the individual pursuit to succeed her compatriot Lisa Brennauer ahead of Bryony Botha of New Zealand and Josie Knight of Britain.