The first hit out on Brisbane’s Anna Meares Velodrome yesterday provided Queensland track fans with a thrilling battle of pursuit.

150 of the country’s best track cyclists descended on the purpose built Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games stadium, breaking three Australian Championship records and one All Comers record in the opening day.

In the men’s team pursuit, Western Australia put an end to South Australia’s seven-year domination of the event and claimed the Southcott Cup.

No clear leader would emerge until the final kilometre of the pursuit when WA could power away and edge out SA, despite a late rally.

Commonwealth Games gold medalist Cameron Meyer, reigning world champion Sam Welsford, Michael Freiberg and national championship medalist Stephen Hall claimed the gold in a new Australian Championship record of 3mins 55.988secs.

In the women’s, a dominant performance by SA saw them overtake Victoria to defend their team pursuit title and grab the gold, stopping the clock in 4mins 30.928secs

The SA quartet, Alex Manly, Chloe Moran, Danielle McKinnirey were part of the winning team in 2016 adding Glasgow bronze medallist Breanna Hargrave.

To follow the action, live stream here.

WA celebrate pursuit team victory over SA. Photo: John Veage