/ 29 May 2008

Mickelson, Els to lead field at Loch Lomond

World number two Phil Mickelson, third-ranked Ernie Els and fourth-ranked Adam Scott will lead a strong field in the Scottish Open at Loch Lomond in July, organisers said on Thursday.

Mickelson and Els, a double winner of the British Open warm-up event, return after finishing second and third respectively last year behind Frenchman Gregory Havret.

Australian Scott will compete at the Scottish Open for the first time since 2005 when he finished tied 12th behind the winner, South African Tim Clark.

The field for the July 10 to 13 tournament also includes 2007 US Open champion Angel Cabrera, world number 14 Henrik Stenson and twice US Masters winner Jose Maria Olazabal.

Colin Montgomerie, Lee Westwood and Darren Clarke are due to fly the flag for Britain.

”I’m really looking forward to participating in this year’s Scottish Open, the crowds are fantastic and the golf course is always in great shape,” said Scot Montgomerie in a news release.

”Not only does the tournament hold special memories for me having held the trophy high in 1999 but Loch Lomond was the setting for my wedding earlier this year so I’m very much looking forward to returning.”

The British Open will be held at Royal Birkdale the week after the Scottish Open. – Reuters 2008