A SURNAME is not the only thing Durban North golfer, Liam McIlroy (left), shares with Northern Irish superstar, Rory. He also shares the same passion and quest to be one of the best golfers in the world. The Northwood School matric pupil recently won the Open Amateur Qualifying Golf Tournament held in Kloof. It was the 17-year-old’s first win and he will now compete in the upcoming SA Amateur Matchplay Tour in George.

“I was pretty happy with my performances and I’m excited to be part of the amateur tour, which is a first for me. Golf has taught me some important life lessons and one of those is perseverance and the ability to keep going even when the going is tough. I know that there are a number of promising and talented players competing in the same tournament, but my goal is to do my best and focus on my game,” he said.

McIlroy began his golfing career at the tender age of two, when he took to the putting greens of the White River Golf Course.

“My dad was a keen golfer and I remember spending my spare time on the course. He told me to always be determined and hard-working and as the years went on I was able to master my game,” he said.

The local resident said his goal would be to make the SA Schools team.

“I’m ranked fourth in the province in the U21 category and have consistently made the KZN team since U12. Ultimately I would love to make the SA Schools team and one day represent South Africa on the grand stage.”

Liam’s Faves
Fave food: Pizza
Fave musician/Band: ACDC
Fave sports to watch: Hockey
Fave quote: ‘A river cuts through rock, not because of its power, but because of its persistence’