McIlroy out of British Amateur Championship

Rory McIlroy's dream of winning the British Amateur Championship ended in tears when food poisoning forced him to withdraw.

The 17-year-old Holywood star finished on his knees during the second qualifying round at Prince's Golf Club near Sandwich on Tuesday.

After successfully defending his West of Ireland and Irish Close titles already this year, McIlroy had hoped to win the Amateur and earn a priceless invite to next year's US Masters.

Struggling after a first round 78, he battled on for 12 holes before his father, who doubles as his caddie, found him doubled up in pain.

Gerry McIlroy said: "I walked ahead on the 12th green to get a yardage and when I turned back I found Rory kneeling on the ground, crying and doubled up in pain.

"He was more angry than anything else because he had put so much into his preparation for this.

"My heart went out to him. I tried to get him to come off the course after three holes but he kept on going.

"The R&A were very concerned about him and I took him back to bed in his hotel. I'm sure he'll be fine soon, but he's really disappointed."

Welshman Llewellyn Matthews led the qualifiers on 142 thanks to a brilliant three under par 68 at Royal St George's.

Limerick's Cian McNamara was the only Irishman to make the matchplay stages after a 78 at Prince's left him right on the cut mark at 152.

Warrenpoint's Jim Carvill shot a 78 at Royal St George's to miss out by one stroke.

Pat Murray (79) and Lurgan's Gareth Shaw (82) finished well outside the cut mark on 156 with former footballer Stephen Grant (80) and West Waterford's Seamus Power (73) a shot further back on 157.

Esker Hills' Shane Lowry who had an 82 at Royal St George's for 158 with Peter O'Keeffe of Douglas on 159 after a 77 at Royal St George's.