PERSONAL
Because of viral cardiomyopathy, he had first heart transplant in 1992 and took up the game of golf as part of his rehabilitation. Had second heart transplant in 2008 and five months later finished T60 at the Children's Miracle Network Classic on the PGA TOUR.
With an American father and a Norwegian mother, he holds dual citizenship and has had his heart-transplant story told in the Norwegian media.
Never travels without his blanket.
Favorite movie is "Braveheart." Favorite pro team is the Miami Dolphins. Favorite vacation spot is Norway.
Biggest thrill outside of golf is the birth of his daughter. Biggest thrill in golf is playing in the 2010 U.S. Open.
Something on his bucket list is to win a PGA TOUR event.
Is involved with the Transplant Foundation and Donate Life America.
Received the 2012 Babe Didrikson Zaharias Courage Award from the U.S. Sports Academy in a presentation at Disney during the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals Classic.
On Tuesday night of the 2013 Wells Fargo Championship, threw out the first pitch at a Charlotte Knights' game in promotion of his Donate Life America campaign to raise organ donation awareness. Gave numerous TV, radio and print interviews throughout the week at Quail Hollow as part of his promotional efforts. Was awarded the Golf Writers Association of America's Ben Hogan Award in 2009.
Website is erikcompton.com.
