Chief minister praises Cavendish cycling success
Manx chief minister Tony Brown has praised cyclist Mark Cavendish, as an "inspiration for future generations" of island sport stars.
Cavendish, 25, from Douglas, secured his fifth win of the 2010 Tour de France, by coming first in the Champs-Elysees final stage on Sunday.
The win was his 15th tour success overall.
Mr Brown said that his win with a lead of four bike lengths had been "nothing short of phenomenal".
He said: "I know his many friends and fans in the island were willing him to win on the Champs-Elysees.
"His achievements have made headlines all around the world and have placed the Isle of Man firmly in the international media spotlight.
"Mark has shown the heights that can be scaled with talent, determination and team support, and I'm sure he will be an inspiration for a future generation of island sportsmen and women.
"We are all looking forward to Mark pulling on the Isle of Man team colours when he competes at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi in October."