McDowall has become a fixture in the Glasgow midfield since the 2022/23 campaign, going on to become a Scotland international and captain his club and country.
The achievements are all the greater as McDowall was almost lost to the game and contemplating a return to the family farm in Kirkcudbright.
Before Franco Smith's arrival McDowall's opportunities were limited and he was set to be released before accepting a short-term deal - Smith's first season at Scotstoun.
After Friday's win over Sale Sharks, McDowall was presented with a cap to mark his century, and in his speech highlighted the role Smith and the coaching team played in helping reach that milestone.