Mickelson in high spirits at Riviera

PACIFIC PALISADES, California (Reuters) - Phil Mickelson was delighted to make a solid start in Thursday's opening round at Riviera Country Club, one of very few venues on the West Coast where he has failed to win.

The American world number two, the highest-ranked player in the field, fired a three-under-par 68 to end a blustery day at the Northern Trust Open three strokes off the lead.

"I know there were some lower scores out there but I thought it was a good start," Mickelson told reporters after piling up five birdies and two bogeys.

"The wind was a little stronger than it has been in the past and it was the opposite direction than what we're used to here at Riviera. Usually it's off the ocean."

The three-times major champion has always relished competing on the classic tree-lined layout where he lost out to fellow American Charles Howell III in a playoff for last year's title.

"I love playing the West Coast but this is a tournament that's so far eluded me," said Mickelson, a winner of 32 titles on the PGA Tour.

"It's not always fun to accept but I don't feel as though there's anything about Riviera that is uncomfortable. I love the golf course. I love the way it feels.

"Last year was a good year for me, even though I didn't win. I played well here and I felt like having played well, I'm going to try to add this tournament (to his schedule) and play here more, because I really do enjoy this golf course."

Mickelson, who missed the third-round cut at last week's Pebble Beach National Pro-Am, was particularly encouraged by his performance on the greens.

"The putter felt good and, if I can continue putting like that, I should have a good chance on the weekend," the American said after totaling 25 putts. "I'm looking forward to the next three days."

(Editing by Alastair Himmer)