Team HTC-Columbia earlier today announced that Australian Mark Renshaw has extended his contract with the team for 2011 and 2012. Renshaw has become known as one of the best lead out guys in the peloton over the past two years, a label that is particularly owed to his consistent efforts in leading HTC-Columbia's top sprinter Mark Cavendish to many of his victories.

"Mark is a key rider in our sprint execution and was critical to our sprint success in the Tour de France this year and last," HTC-Columbia Team Manager Rolf Aldag commented and added "He also has a lot of potential as a top sprinter himself which he proved on Saturday when he won a stage in Denmark."

"We trust in his talent and we're happy to have him as part of the solid foundation for our team," he further added.

"I'm happy to extend with the team," Mark Renshaw commented and added "I know my role and I'm happy to commit to that and be part of a successful team.

"I'm for sure looking forward to more sprints with Cav and hopefully next year I'll also get more chances to prove myself as one of Australia's top sprinters ready for Copenhagen World Championships. We rode on the course yesterday."

Renshaw comes off a successful Tour of Denmark where he won a stage, was instrumental in the wins of his two teammates Matt Goss and Hayden Roulston. He was extremely close to winning another himself in a late breakaway attempt.

"I'm really happy with my form," he added. "I think I can carry this form all the way to World Championships in Australia later this year."