- WGC-HSBC Champions, Round One
Mickelson, Bubba make flying starts in Guangdong
ESPN staff
November 1, 2012
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Phil Mickelson is at six-under in Guangdong
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American Ryder Cup duo Bubba Watson and Phil Mickelson both signed for 66s to make a flying start to the WGC-HSBC Champions event in Guangdong, China.
However, they were overtaken late in the day by Adam Scott and Louis Oosthuizen, who share the overnight lead on seven-under at Mission Hills.
Mickelson revealed earlier this week that he was still reeling from the American team's final-day Ryder Cup collapse at Medinah - but, in his first appearance since the battle with Europe, he blasted away a few demons. The highlight came with an eagle at the par-five ninth, which was joined by four other birdies.
Masters winner Watson coughed up three bogeys as his aggressive strategy veered into reckless territory, but seven birdies and an eagle proved that the risk was worth it.
Australia's Scott made a late burst with a stunning finish, closing his round birdie-birdie-eagle to overhaul the chasing pack and nestle alongside Oosthuizen.
The in-form Peter Hanson, who could overtake the absent Rory McIlroy in the Race to Dubai this week, is also at six-under, alongside Ireland's Shane Lowry.
Former world No. 1 Luke Donald joins European Ryder Cup hero Martin Kaymer at four-under, one stroke ahead of Ian Poulter and two in front of Lee Westwood.
Graeme McDowell is on one-under, while Justin Rose finished on level-par following a 72.
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