World No. 2 Rory McIlroy’s group easily attracted the most attention in today’s Shell Houston Open Pro-Am.

Frost on the Redstone Course  had delayed the start of the Pro-Am by two-and-a-half hours forcing officials to reduce the event to just nine holes.

But when McIlroy finally took to the course at around 10.30am local time he did so in the company of some name amateur partners.

Joining McIlroy was NFL Dallas Cowboys running back legend, Emmit Smith along with James Baker, a former Secretary of State in fellow Texan’s George W. Bush’s administration.

Also in the group was was Roger Penske and owner of the NASCAR Penske Team and also the team with the most Indianapolis 500 victories – 15.

Rory McIlroy and his 2013 Shell Houston Open Pro-Am team – Marvin Odum (left),  Odum’s wife, Emmit Smith (next to McIlroy), James Baker (on McIlroy’s right) and Roger Penske (right). Photo – www.golfbytourmiss.com)

Making up the group was Marvin Odum, President of Shell Oil.

“It’s the great thing about this game of golf that you can play alongside sporting greats from other sports, politicians and company executives,” said McIlroy.

“We all had a great time this morning even though we only got to play nine holes.

“I just loved chatting with Emmit and talking about his career and how much he now loves playing golf.”

And Smith was just as excited playing alongside McIlroy.

“I’m having a blast playing alongside Rory,” said Smith.

“He’s a great young man and it’s just amazing to watch him swing a golf club because he’s just a kid, weighing something like 145 lbs and he’s just smoking it.

“I’ve enjoyed following his career from afar and watched him rise up through the ranks and become the man he is right now, and have the success he’s had and to be alongside him playing today is amazing for me.”

Smith was asked by www.golfbytourmiss.com if, given how well McIlroy is now playing, whether he would consider placing a bet on him to win next month’s Masters.

He replied smiling:  “I never ever bet on another human being.”

Former US Secretary of State, James Bakes signs a baseball for a fan. (Photo – www.golfbytourmiss.com)

The 83-year old Baker is a Houston native and plays off a handicap of 23, and he also was full of praise for McIlroy.

“I’ve just loved playing today with Rory and he’s a terrific young kid,” said Baker.

“I played last year with Freddie Couples and he was fabulous and to play with Rory also was great, and I just hope he wins this tournament.”

If McIlroy does win in the Lone Star State he will return to Wold No. 1.

Race car legend, Roger Penske teeing off at the 7th during today’s Shell Houston Open Pro-Am (Photo – www.golfbytourmiss.com)

Rory McIlroy driving off the 6th hole during today’s Shell Houston Open Pro-Am. (Photo – www.golfbytourmiss.com)

Rory McIlroy hitting his second shot into the 6th hole during today’s Shell Houston Open Pro-Am. (Photo – www.golfbytourmiss.com)