Rory McIlroy embracing the challenge at the Masters

After a second consecutive 73 McIlroy says that for a golfer Augusta is one of the best places on earth despite the frustrations that have littered his 14 previous visits

A tale floating about the press building reveals a little bit about a mindest that has led Rory McIlroy to an indifferent start to his 14th career Masters.

During a practice round, McIlroy wandered over to the ropes to have a brief chat with his father, Gerry, in the presence of a scribe. He was in pleasant enough spirits preparing for another crack at his major championship white whale. He had work to do and excused himself.