China's Li Yan celebrates with her national flag after the awarding ceremony of the Women's Points Race of Cycling Track at Doha Asiad, Qatar, Dec. 14, 2006. Li Yan won the gold medal with 24 points. (Xinhua Photo/Li Ga) Photo Gallery >>>

    DOHA, Dec. 14 (Xinhua) -- Li Yan of China won the women's points race gold medal in the Asian Games cycling competition on Thursday.

    Li is the first Chinese to win the Asian Games women's points race.

    "This gold means a lot to me," said Li.

    Overcoming a slow start, the Asian champion demonstrated her endurance and stamina to collect 18 points from the last four sprints.

    "In the beginning, the South Korean cyclist gave me some pressure," Li said. "I knew her well. She almost beat me. I was lucky to make enough points in the last four laps."

    Ranked sixth in the world, Li amassed a total of 24 points for the gold, followed by Lee Min Hye of South Korea in the second place with 23 points. The bronze medal went to Chanpeng Nontasin of Thailand in 11 points.

    "I did pretty bad today. I was leading during the race, so I expected to win. The Chinese rider sprinted and won," said Lee MinHye.

    "I need more training because I am still young. The race is not over. I can do better," added Lee.

    Li's teammate Wang Jianling, ranked 15th in the world, only finished ninth.

    Before the Doha Games, the women's points race was the only women's track event that China had not won.