McIlroy shatters course record

Rory McIlroy shot a spectular 61 around the Dunluce course

Rory McIlroy blew away the course record at Royal Portrush with an 11-under par 61 at the North of Ireland Amateur Open on Tuesday.

The teenage sensation shot nine birdies and an eagle to better the previous best around the Dunluce links by an incredible three shots.

The 16-year-old had carded a 71 in yesterday's opening round around the Valley course and heads the qualifiers.

McIlroy has won the West of Ireland and Irish Close titles so far this season.

Top scorer from the first day was 20-year-old Ciaran McAleavey who shot a five-under par 65 around the Valley course with 16-year-old Liam Reilly one-shot off the pace.

Banbridge's McAleavey, however, shot a 73 on Tuesday around Dunluce to drop down the list.

Two top names to miss out are former Walker Cup captain Garth McGimpsey and last year's winner Trevor Coulter.

McGimpsey, a five-time winner of the event, followed a first round 76 with a five-over 77, while Coulter shot 71 and 81.

The knock-out stages of the Championship begin on Wednesday with the final on Friday.