Life in the Fast Lane Forour Boy Wonder RoryHolywood's Rory McIlroy Has Forked Out for a New Ferrari F430 in Gun-Metal Grey

RORY McIlroy is facing a five-figure annual sum for his car insurance alone after becoming the proud owner of a sleek new Ferrari.

The professional golfer has treated himself to a luxury Ferrari F430.

But insurance for a 20-year-old man to drive such an expensive car comes at a high price.

According to an England-based insurance company which specialises in insurance for high-performance cars, the young Holywood sportsman can expect to pay out a whopping Pounds 12-Pounds 16,000 per year for cover.

With top speeds in excess of 190mph, Rory's new supercar costs between Pounds 138,000-Pounds 140,000.

Writing on his website (www.rorymcilroy.com) about his recent purchase, the golfing star said that he was inspired by fellow professional Darren Clarke.

"I've been doing a bit of major shopping recently and have purchased a couple of new cars!

"I decided to follow in the footsteps of a certain Mr D Clarke and buy a Ferrari -- it's an F430 in gun-metal grey and it's absolute class," he wrote.

"I went to Birmingham with my Dad to collect it and we drove it up to Stranraer and then on the ferry to Belfast -- a seriously exciting day."

The young golfer said that he's wanted a Ferrari for some time.

"I always said to myself if I did really well then I'd get one," Rory added.

The Ferrari price tag is just part of an impressive cash splash by young Rory, who also picked up a new red Audi RS5 estate with a price tag of Pounds 55,000, which he says has enough room for his new Labradoodle puppy, Theo.

Rory turned professional in September 2007 following his success as an amateur in the British Open.

Originally published by GEMMA MCFLYNN, newseditor@belfasttelegraph.co.uk.