Cavendish was once again too fast for the rest in St Louis on Monday

Mark Cavendish clinched the 50th victory of his career at the age of only 24 in the opening stage of the Tour of Missouri in the United States.

It was the British sprinter's 22nd win of the season in a haul which includes six stages of the Tour de France.

Cavendish outsprinted Thor Hushovd, who won the Tour de France's green jersey ahead of him, in St Louis.

And the Briton confirmed he will stay at Columbia in 2010, ending speculation he would ride for Team Sky.

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The Manxman had continually downplayed links to the new British outfit and will carry on as Columbia's star sprinter.

However, there have been changes at the team and Edvald Boasson Hagen of Norway and Greg Henderson of New Zealand are expected to join Sky.

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