The 'Big Easy' began on the 10th tee and birdied holes 13, 17 and 18 to reach the turn three-under. Another birdie at the fourth and five pars coming home led to a blemish-free card, ensuring he would be up with the leaders come the end of day.
England's Ian Poulter was fastest out the blocks with a 66 while Chan Yih-Shin finished level with Els.
Other South Africans in the field are Charl Schwartzel, James Kingston, Richard Sterne, Hendrik Buhrmann, Keith Horne, James Kamte and Anton Haig, while major winners Phil Mickelson, Geoff Ogilvy and Padraig Harrington add weight to a classy tournament.