Cavendish tops in Turkey

Istanbul - Britain's former world champion Mark Cavendish sprinted to his second straight Tour of Turkey stage victory on Tuesday as he also retained the leader's blue jersey.

The Isle of Man native, who has won 25 stages on the Tour de France, the third all-time highest tally, won a bunch sprint at the end of a 175km run from Alaynya to Kmer, with a trademark burst to the line.

Riding for Omega-Pharma, he also won the opening 141km stage around Alanya.

Italy's Francesco Chicchi (Neri) and his compatriot Niccolo Bonifazio (Lampre) were second and third respectively.

Cavendish completed the stage in 3hrs 50:17 as he keeps the early overall lead on the eight stage race that finishes in Istanbul on Sunday May 4.

The third stage, set for Tuesday is a 185km race from Finike to Elmali and is set to shake up the overall standings, with several climbs including a category one summit finish.