McIlroy and Saltman reach second stage

Qualifying School : Rory McIlroy has successfully negotiated the first hurdle in his bid for a European Tour card next season…

Qualifying School: Rory McIlroy has successfully negotiated the first hurdle in his bid for a European Tour card next season, qualifying for the second stage of tour school.

The Co Down teenager, who will make his debut as a professional at next week's British Masters, finished in a tie for  13th place, with the top 29 players progressing to November's next stage.

McIlroy finished with a level par round of 72 at The Oxfordshire, his highest score of the week, for an aggregate total of eight-under with Tongo Charamba of Zimbabwe leading the field on 21-under.

McIlroy's Walker Cup teammate Lloyd Saltman finished in seventh place while Damien Mooney (tied 18th) is also through.

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At Chart Hills Michael McGeady was among was among six Irish qualifiers while Michael McDermott and Mark Campbell progressed at Germany's Fleesensee club.