Tracey Hannah was a comfortable winner today at the Fort William leg of the World Cup ©Getty Images

Tracey Hannah of Australia enjoyed a 10 second victory on a day of home disappointment at the International Cycling Union (UCI) Mountain Bike Downhill World Cup in Fort William.

Home British fans were left despondent when defending champion and the world's dominant rider Rachel Atherton was forced to withdraw following a crash in morning timed practice at Nevis Range.

The Briton later revealed on Instagram how she had dislocated her left shoulder following the crash in a wooded section of the Scottish course.

In her absence, Hannah produced a superb performance to win in 5min 39.298sec.

"A crazy run, very emotional," she said afterwards.

Home hope Rachel Atherton crashed in practice and was ruled out ©Getty Images
Home hope Rachel Atherton crashed in practice and was ruled out ©Getty Images

Myriam Nicole of France finished 10.245 seconds behind to take the silver medal.

Emelie Siegenthaler took a Swiss bronze, 13.810 seconds back.

Manon Carpenter was the top home rider in fourth, 16.001 behind the winner, with Tahnee Seagrave ninth.

South Africa's Greg Minnaar successfully defended his men's title.

He clocked 4:40.344 to win by just 2.979 seconds over Australian rival Jack Moir.

Aaron Gwin of the United States took third in 3.799.

Laurie Greenland was the top British finisher in ninth, 7.751 seconds behind, after world champion Danny Hart crashed out.