Cav takes first stage in the States

Mark Cavendish outsprinted rival Thor Hushovd to win the first stage of the Tour of Missouri yesterday (Monday).

In beating the man who pipped him for the Tour de France green jersey earlier this summer, Cavendish also won a Buell 1150cc motorbike.

It was the Manxman’s 22nd win of the season on a day in which he confirmed he’ll be staying with the Team Columbia-HTC squad next year - ending speculation he will ride for the new Team Sky which will launch in 2010 with a core of British riders recruited by British Cycling's Dave Brailsford.