Two-time US Open champion Ernie Els of South Africa, bidding for his second victory of the year, fired a seven-under par 65 to share the second-round lead of the Buick Open at Grand Blanc, Michigan.

Els, who won at Riveira in February, stood at 11-under 133 and headed into the third round level with Rocco Mediate and Tom Pernice at the $2.4 million event at Warwick Hills Golf and Country Club.

Tom Kite, who has not had a win since 1993, and reigning PGA Championship winner Vijay Singh are one shot back. First-round leader Brent Geiberger shared sixth with Bob Estes and Stuart Appleby of Australia at 135.