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Phil Mickelson quickly hit his stride at the Scottish Open on Thursday, shooting 6-under 66 to sit two strokes off John Parry's lead midway through the first round.

Rebounding from a three-putt for bogey on his first hole, Mickelson breezed around the Castle Stuart course under blue skies and little wind to post six birdies and an eagle at No. 12.

Mickelson is seeking his first win in Europe in 20 years, while using the event as a warmup or next week's British Open at Muirfield.

Parry, ranked No. 471, led the way after shooting an 8-under 64 in the second group out. Simon Khan shot 65.