WHITE SULPER SPRINGS, West Virginia (AFP) — Two time heart-transplant recipient Erik Compton fired a seven-under 63 to seize a share of the lead after the opening round of the PGA Greenbrier Classic.

The 30-year-old Compton, who is playing on a sponsor’s exemption, is level with fellow American Matt Every.

Compton rolled in birdies on nine of his last 15 holes for a career-best score on the PGA Tour.

Finishing his round after an 80-minute weather delay, Every matched his career low to tie Compton.

He had an opportunity on the final hole to take the lead outright but missed a 10-foot birdie putt on his last hole.

Jeff Overton, George McNeill and Pat Perez shared third place at six-under 64, while Brendon de Jonge, Charles Howell, Aron Price, Matt Bettencourt and John Rollins all shot 65.

At age 9, Compton was diagnosed with viral cardiomyopathy. The disease inflames the heart and leaves it unable to pump blood like it should. His first transplant came three years later and he underwent another just two years ago.