Rising star Rory McIlroy has been riding high in the build-up to the Dubai Desert Classic which gets under way at the Emirates Golf Club tomorrow.

The world No 39 tried his hand at camel riding earlier this week. But just over a year after turning professional, he is still seeking his first win.

Can he get over the hump? Rory McIlroy hasn't lifted a trophy since he won the Sherry Cup in March, 2007.Winner of the Silver Medal awarded to the leading amateur in the 2007 Open at Carnoustie, his last tournament victory came in Sherry Cup at Sotogrande nearly two years ago.

He was able to unwind during a visit with his father and friends to the Jumeirah Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa before teeing off in the US$2.5 million tournament.

He also sampled the traditional sport of falconry.