Compton Stumbles in First Round of Q-School

In his first round of PGA Tour qualifying since receiving a new heart just five months ago, Eric Compton fired a 76.  It leaves him in a difficult position as he looks to move forward to the next stage of Q-school.

Although breaking 70 would have been the storybook start to his compelling comeback, nerves and extra adrenaline joined with tough conditions on Key Biscayne to produce a 4-over-par 76.

''I wish I all of a sudden played better because I had a new heart,'' Compton said, ``but it's still a grind.

``I've been playing professional golf now for [nearly] eight years, and it's tough.''

Five bogeys and just one birdie marked his round at Crandon Golf Course as he struggled to hit approach shots close enough for solid birdie chances. He ended the day tied for 49th in the 78-man field.

More significantly, Compton stood three shots off the position needed to reach the next stage of the three-phase Q-school process. The top 23 players and ties after four rounds will advance.

''I can't be too hard on myself,'' Compton said. ``Obviously I wasn't firing on all cylinders. That's just part of being away for so long -- the difference between shooting even-par and 76.''

Shaun Melville of Lubbock, Texas, topped the leaderboard after a 5-under 67, one shot ahead of fellow Texan Brett Callas. Only two other players broke 70 in blustery conditions.

We'll keep you up to date on Erik's efforts.