WHEN Brian McElhinney saw a then 14-year-old Rory McIlroy represent Ulster Youths at the Interprovincials in Lahinch in 2003, he knew he was witnessing a special talent and trusted his instincts, placing £300 on the prodigy to win a major by 2020, at odds of 66/1.

GARY MURPHY seems almost certain to retain his Race to Dubai Tour card thanks to the help of six international players including four Major champions.