Rory McIlroy went back to his Holywood roots yesterday to open the state-of-the-art academy he funded to the tune of around €850,000.

The world No 2 has not forgotten the role the once modest Co Down club played in his formation and took time out to treat three young golfers to a golf clinic with coach Michael Bannon.

"Holywood Golf Club has been a very important part of my life as it's where it all began for me," McIlroy said after opening the new performance academy, which features a gym, five hitting bays, three TrackMans and two high-definition golf simulators which allow golfers to play 60 courses.

"I spent so much time here and have many fond memories, so to be able to give something back is important. 

"The new facilities are unbelievable and I'm delighted that all members will be able to benefit from the new technology. 

"It's more than a golf club now. It's been a few years in the making, so it's great to be home for Christmas and see the finished product."

Holywood hopes to cash in on McIlroy's popularity by offering Overseas Membership with full use of all the facilities at the club.

"It was a very special day to have Rory back home in Holywood where it all began for him as a junior, opening our state-of-the-art performance academy," said General Manager Jonny Caren.

"Holywood Golf Club is eternally grateful for all of Rory's support that has helped set the club apart from every other golf club in the country, providing a facility second to none to the local Holywood community. 

"It has allowed us to open the doors to welcome our new overseas membership category, for everyone to experience the history and the home of one of the world's leading golfers.”

Following a competition run by McIlroy's sponsors GOLFPASS, Elm Park's U16 Girls international Kate Fleming (13), Chippenham Golf Club's Ed Tomsett (15) and Anya McKenzie (17) from Eden Golf Club in Cumbria were chosen from 2,000 entries to enjoy a clinic with the four-time major winner and his coach and challenge him in a nearest the pin contest.

In Spain, officials were forced to suspend the second round of the Alps Tour Qualifying School after over 30mm of rain fell in just 18 hours, water-logging La Cala Resort. Scores

West Waterford's Gary Hurley (T13), Ulstermen Peter and Michael Dallat (T35), and Galway's Ronan Mullarney and Wicklow's Simon Bryan (T71) resume play today bidding to make the top 65 and ties who make the cut.

The top 35 and ties after 54 holes will earn full cards for 2020.