ORLANDO, Fla., March 16 (UPI) -- Rocco Mediate has a three-shot lead midway through the PGA's Arnold Palmer Invitational Golf Tournament at Orlando, Fla.
In Friday's second round, Mediate separated himself from Thursday's three-way tie at the top by shooting 5-under-par 65. His 36-hole score is 9-under 131.
"Things are coming around," the 44-year-old Mediate said. "I'm re-learning the game now."
Mediate has been hampered by back problems and hasn't won since 2002, and is competing in this tournament on a medical exemption.
"If my body feels good, I know I still can compete a little bit with these guys," he said.
Mediate's playing partner, Paul Casey (70), and John Rollins (65) are tied for second place at 6-under 134.
Sergio Garcia (69) shares fourth place at 5-under 135 with four others, including former PGA Tournament champion Shaun Micheel (68).
Tiger Woods (73), another overnight co-leader, is tied for 13th at 3-under 137, six shots back.
