My golfing hero

There is not one golfer I can think of who is more determined to succeed and reach the number one spot than Rory McIlroy. I'm not alone with this opinion. European Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie has called the Ulsterman a "superstar in the making" and Ernie Els has referred to him as "the next number one in the world".

McIlroy is 20 and turned pro at the young age of 18. He was born in Northern Ireland in a town called Holywood. Although it may not be the 'Hollywood' we all know, the town soon introduced him into the world, as a star. 

In the days before McIlroy turned pro he also stood out in the junior golfing world, becoming the youngest ever winner of both the West of Ireland Championship and the Irish Close Championship. After finishing second in the 2009 Race to Dubai he fell into into the category of 'golfing hero' to many teenagers around the world.

McIlroy's swing is rarely short of textbook and the power he can produce still amazes me. He is the perfect role model in an era that is screaming out for such players. It's his drive and determination that has me inclined to agree with Els, the next world number one. 

Where next?

The last word: Bill Elliott's golf blog Equipment news: Latest new arrivals Competitions: Win golf prizes Golf Monthly Forum: Join the debate