France's Beaugrand wins women's triathlon

France's Cassandre Beaugrand won the Olympic women's triathlon on Wednesday after the event finally went ahead in a huge relief for organisers.

Problems with the River Seine's water quality had marred the run-up to the competition.

Organisers were forced to cancel training this week in the river and postponed the men's race on Tuesday after the Seine was found to be too dirty for athletes following rainstorms last week.

But despite heavy rain overnight, which can stir up pollution, organisers said early on Wednesday the water levels had been "assessed as compliant" for the women's event and the men's immediately afterwards to go ahead.

The women's field dived into the Seine at the historic Alexandre III bridge in the heart of the City of Light before a cycling stage and then a running stage, as big crowds lined the route.

Beaugrand, a 27-year-old from the Parisian suburbs, only emerged from the leading pack on a thrilling final lap of the running stage before crossing the line and sinking to her knees in elation.

Julie Perron of Switzerland took the silver medal and Britain's Beth Potter won bronze.