Just eight months after undergoing a second heart transplant operation, American Erik Compton will complete a remarkable journey when he tees up alongside some of the world’s leading players in the Dubai Desert Classic this week.
Compton took up golf as rehabilitation after he needed a heart transplant when he was 12 years old and quickly developed into one of the top junior players in the United States. Then, just as his life seemed on track, he suffered a massive heart attack, requiring him to undergo a second transplant last May.
The series of life-threatening ailments, however, only strengthened his resolve and when ‘golf in DUBAi – the promoters and organisers of the Dubai Desert Classic – invited him to compete in the $2.500,000 event, Compton never shied away from the challenge and was quick to commit after consulting his doctors and his pregnant wife.
"It's just awesome," said Compton referring to the golf in DUBAi invitation. "I'm going to be rubbing elbows with everybody and hopefully I'm going to be sharp and play well. Last year I was following Sergio Garcia and now I'm going to be playing next to him.
World Number Two Garcia is just one of the stars Compton will join in the field, along with three-time winner Ernie Els, Henrik Stenson and Lee Westwood.
“I'll play Dubai, come back and be at home to greet the new-born baby,” said Compton, who will be taking the risk of a 7,800 mile journey from his home town Miami to Dubai, never mind walking in competition for four days and playing a practice round.
“I never got anywhere without trying. And I've always pushed myself to the limit to do that," said Compton, the winner of 2005 King Hassan II Golf Trophy.
"It's been a rough few months," said Compton. "When you're 12 and you hear you'll need a new heart you don't worry about it. But when you're 28 and you need a new heart ... I know I've got to get a new heart or that's it. That's reality,” said Compton, who has played in PGA tournaments since 2000 and has been a fixture on the Nationwide Tour since 2002.
“Being healthy is the most important thing. It's going to be a test, it's going to be hard, if I do get myself in a position of playing well, stress is going to be difficult, but at some point or another I'm going to have to gauge how to do that. I think I'm getting to the point where I'm healthier than I have been in a year.”
Compton will have the option of using a buggy during the tournament but said he wanted to walk the course.
Mohamed Juma Buamaim, Vice Chairman and CEO of golf in DUBAi, said: “We are delighted to know that Erik has accepted our invitation. His presence in Dubai will be a source of inspiration for everyone watching him.
“We will try and do our best to ensure he has a comfortable stay here and hope he returns home with good memories of Dubai. He has already demonstrated the strength and determination of the human spirit to stay alive and keep fighting against the odds.
“He is a true winner off course – and on course, he is a man with a big heart.”
