Experience pays off for Mickelson

Phil Mickelson broke par for the 50th time at Augusta National on Thursday, overcoming the whipping winds for a 1-under 71 in the opening round of the Masters.

Three-time champion Mickelson, seeking at age 46 to surpass Jack Nicklaus as the oldest winner of the tournament, licked his lips when he saw the weather forecast, figuring it would give him an advantage over younger players.

As winds gusted to 40 miles per hour, befuddling many players, Mickelson picked his spots, playing conservatively at times but mindful that the receptive, rain-softened greens would allow birdies to be picked off occasionally.