Locals McIlroy and G-Mac looking forward to Irish Open

Rory McIlroy, speaking to UTV at Portstewart Golf Course ahead of the Irish Open. Credit: UTV

Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell have admitted victory on home soil at the Irish Open would be extra special, as the tournament prepares to tee off.

“To win for the first time last year was very important, it was very special – especially with my record at the Irish Open. It hasn’t been so good,” McIlroy told UTV on Tuesday.

“But I feel like I’ve been able to learn how to deal with the pressures that come with being a home favourite and all that sort of stuff.“I really used that to my advantage last year, and hopefully I can do the same this year.”

  • WATCH: Ruth Gorman talks to Rory and G-Mac before giving this golf malarky a go

McDowell, who is from the North Coast, added that he was making the most of the “home edge”.

He said: “It looks like we’re going to have a really nice few days ahead, so hopefully people will come out and support the local players and all the fantastic talent we’ve got on display here this week.”

Meanwhile, McIlroy - currently ranked fourth in the world - may only be aged 28, but he has already been handing down some tips to the next generation.

  • WATCH: When Rory met Sevie

Little Ballymena lad Sevie Trowlen - who is named after the late golfing legend Severiano ‘Seve’ Ballesteros - is just four, but is already out to give the professionals a run for their money.

“I've been practising since I was one. I think I've practised about a hundred days,” Sevie told UTV Sports Correspondent Ruth Gorman, as he met McIlroy during a practice round at Portstewart Golf Club.

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