Phil Mickelson turned in one of the greatest rounds of his long and storied career in the opening round of the Desert Classic in LaQuinta, California yesterday. The event is being played over three courses - the LaQuinta Country Club, the Stadium Course and the Nicklaus Tournament Course, with the Stadium Course acting as the host.

    Playing the LaQuinta Country Club Course, Phil posted a flawless 18 holes. He made putts from everywhere, chipped in on one hole, and made it up and down from several traps. It was the third time he has shot 60 in his PGA career, the other two coming at the Waste Management Open, where he went on to win both times. 

    Phil birdied four holes on the front nine, and added an eagle three on the par-5 sixth hole for a 6-under 30. He was just as spectacular on the back, making six more birdies for another 30 and a total of 12-under 60. He finished the day three strokes ahead of Adam Long, who shot 9-under 63. 

    The field tore the three courses up, and a myriad of players were well under par. 

    Gator: Brian Gay shot 1-under 71. Seminoles: Daniel Berger, 5-under 67; rookie Hank Lebioda, 2-under 70.

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