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McIlroy wants to climb higher in South Africa

Rory McIlroy sees no reason why he can't keep on climbing up the world rankings after breaking into the top 50 ahead of tomorrow…

Wed Dec 10 2008 - 00:00

Rory McIlroy sees no reason why he can't keep on climbing up the world rankings after breaking into the top 50 ahead of tomorrow's Alfred Dunhill Championships in South Africa.

Lying in 49th position at present, the Holywood teenager can secure his place in all four of next year's majors and three World Golf Championship events if he can remain inside the top 50 at the end of the year.

But McIlroy is not planning on standing still at Leopard Creek, probably a good idea considering the vast array of wildlife that surrounds the course in Mpumalanga.

"My goal is to just try and go higher and higher on the world rankings. Hopefully I can stay in the top 50 by the end of the year to get into the Masters and the others. That'll be a great opportunity for me," McIlroy said on the eve of the event.

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The former Walker Cup player will play two events in South Africa before taking a break over Christmas, but he wants to end a dream year in style before putting his feet up.

"I've been playing well the last couple of months and hopefully I can keep that going and maybe go close in one of these events in South Africa," added McIlroy, who will also contest next week's South African Open at Pearl Valley on the Western Cape.

McIlroy has been particularly taken by the Leopard Creek course, where ISM stablemate Lee Westwood is favourite, while the home challenge is led by US-based Rory Sabbatini.

McIlroy will tee it up alongside two of the other home favourites in Charl Schwartzel and Sunshine Tour Order of Merit leader Richard Sterne.

"It's fantastic here. It's a beautiful place and a great golf course. I'm really looking forward to this week because it's always nice to get a bit of sunshine on your back before you go home for Christmas.

"I'm just trying to get a feel for it. It's so hot, you don't want to do too much and tire yourself out for the tournament. I had a little bit of practice and that was it. I am ready to go for tomorrow."

Jonathan Caldwell makes his European Tour debut, joining fellow Q School qualifier Michael Hoey. Gareth Maybin, who earned his card through the Challenge Tour, is also in action, while Tour regulars Damien McGrane and Gary Murphy also compete.