SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Jan. 29 (UPI) -- Scott Verplank shot an 8-under 63 Thursday that gave him a one-shot lead over the resurging Phil Mickelson after one round of the FBR Open.
Mickelson, who began play on the back nine of the TPC-Scottsdale course, shot a 5-under 30 on the front side. He did not win a tournament in 2003, but is now trying for back-to-back victories after having claimed the Bob Hope Classic last week.
Jonathan Kaye was alone in third at 6-under 65, although defending Masters champ Mike Weir was at 6-under with one hole to play when play was suspended by darkness.
There was a 20-minute delay at the start of the day because of frost on the greens.
Jeff Sluman was among those at 66. Vijay Singh, last season's leading money winner, had to settle for an even-par 71 and was tied for 64th place.
