Choi keeps lead in Honolulu

HONOLULU, Jan. 11 (UPI) -- K.J. Choi closed his round with three straight birdies Friday and moved two shots in front midway through the Sony Open in Honolulu.

Choi shot a 5-under 65 at the Waialae Country Club course, where he challenged for the victory last year before finishing fourth.

Kevin Na equaled the low round of the tournament with a 64 to finish 36 holes at 131 in the first full-field event on the PGA Tour this season.

Steve Marino was alone in third at 132 and 51-year-old Fred Funk also fired a 64 to finish at 133.

Steve Stricker, who moved up to third in the world rankings with his runner-up finish at last week's Mercedes-Benz Championship, rebounded with a 65 Friday and was tied for 19th place at 136. Daniel Chopra, last week's winner, was another shot back.

Choi is seeking his seventh PGA Tour victory. He had two last season, including the Memorial Tournament where Jack Nicklaus was host.