Northern Ireland

Rory McIlroy recalls fond memories of Royal Portrush ahead of The Open

Rory McIlroy pictured in a video posted on The Open page on Facebook
Rory McIlroy pictured in a video posted on The Open page on Facebook Rory McIlroy pictured in a video posted on The Open page on Facebook

RORY McIlroy has told of his "good memories" of Royal Portrush as he prepares to take to the course for next week's Open championship.

As the anticipation continues to build ahead of major golf competition next week, McIlroy has described the "good memories" he has of the Co Antrim course from when he was a young aspiring golfer.

Speaking ahead of the start of his bid for the coveted Claret Jug, the Holywood-born sportsman also revealed it is where he first met fellow golfer Darren Clarke.

In a video posted on The Open Facebook page, McIlroy is seen taking a tour of Royal Portrush and recalling his fond memories of the course.

"There's something about this place, it's very special," he said.

"It's always been a special place for me because I have those memories of my dad playing here when I was a kid.

"The thing that I always remember is when you were driving from home and you were getting to the crest of the hill just before Portrush and you are over looking the golf course and the Irish Sea.

"I first met Darren Clarke here when I was 10 years old on my birthday so it's been a really cool place for me - I've had so many good memories here.

McIlroy added: "When you grow up close so great courses like this, you take them for granted and then you go and play all over the world and you come back and you just realise how good it is".