July 17, 2008

SOUTHPORT, England (AP) - Rocco Mediate (MEE'-dee-ayt) took advantage of a later start and milder weather conditions to fire a 1-under 69 and has a share of the lead after the first round of the British Open.

Mediate, who lost in playoff to Tiger Woods at the U.S. Open, is tied at minus-1 with Graeme McDowell and Robert Allenby. Mediate closed the round with a 20-foot birdie putt.

Greg Norman, Bart Bryant and Adam Scott all shot even-par 70 on the Royal Birkdale course. Mike Weir (weer), Jim Furyk (FYOOR'-ihk) and Retief (reh-TEEF') Goosen are among eight players tied at 1-over.

Sergio Garcia was among the late starters and carded a 72 along with Brandt Snedeker and Anthony Kim.

Ernie Els played in blustery conditions and posted an 80 after taking 45 shot on the back nine. It's his highest score in two decades in his favorite major.

Phil Mickelson lost his ball in the high grass near the sixth green and took a triple bogey that sent him to a 79.