Phil Mickelson and Patrick Reed’s superb first rounds in The Open Championship have illustrated once again the crucial importance the Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open plays in preparation for golf’s oldest Major.
The American duo were in stunning form on Sunday at Castle Stuart, Mickelson carding a 66 to Reed’s 67 and both men carried that form into the opening salvos at Royal Troon, Mickelson leading the way after his 63, with Reed in a share of second with Martin Kaymer after his 66.
The fact that playing top level, competitive links golf in Scotland the week before The Open had helped them acclimatise to both the playing conditions and the time change from home, was not lost on the pair.
“I love it,” said Mickelson. “That's why I was here last week playing in Castle Stuart, it's great. I've spent a lot of time learning how to play in that (weather and conditions). I actually really enjoy it.”
Reed agreed. “I've always wanted to play around the world,” he said. “I think it is really important. I wanted to come over and play, and I love playing over here.”
The 25 year old made his debut appearance at the Scottish Open last week and impressed the locals fans with a pair of 67s on the weekend to move into the top ten and build his confidence ahead of the year's third Major.
"He could stand there for a month and not hit a better one."
— The European Tour (@EuropeanTour) July 8, 2016
Patrick Reed exploring Castle Stuart. #AAMSO https://t.co/23fzsuKOcz
The American duo’s form is the continuation of a trend…….and it’s hard to argue with the facts.
In five of the past six years, the man who has gone on to lift the Claret Jug has played in the Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open: Louis Oosthuizen (2010), Darren Clarke (2011), Ernie Els (2012), Phil Mickelson (2013) and Rory McIlroy (2014), Mickelson, of course, going on to complete a memorable double triumph by winning at Muirfield in 2013 a week after triumphing at Castle Stuart.
We look forward to watching if Sunday’s champion can add to that list.
