GRAEME McDOWELL gave his dad the ultimate early birthday gift on Sunday when he took him to Augusta National for a round of golf on the world's most exclusive course..

Kenny McDowell, an eight handicapper who celebrates his 58th birthday on April 3, will forever be able to regale his pals at Rathmore Golf Club with tales of the day he played Amen Corner in level par.

These are good times for Graeme McDowell.

Simply to be able to give dad Kenny and mum Marian several weeks of Florida sunshine at the dream home he owns on the exclusive Lake Nona resort in Orlando is a privilege any son would relish.

McDowell joined the growing band of world class professional golfers on the books at Lake Nona in the spring of 2005, fulfilling an ambition he had nurtured since visiting the resort during his college days at the University of Alabama, Birmingham.

McIlroy wins first title in Dubai

Northern Ireland teenager Rory McIlroy claimed his maiden professional tournament win with a nervy victory at the Dubai Desert Classic.

The 19-year-old had led by six strokes, but Justin Rose moved to within one shot coming onto the final hole.