Beljan fights through the pain

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Charlie Beljan shot a 64 to take the lead in the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Classic before being rushed to hospital.

Charlie Beljan shot a second round 64 to take the lead in the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Classic before being rushed to hospital.

Beljan had trouble breathing, an increased heart rate, high blood pressure and numbness in his arms on Friday but somehow managed to get through the day and carve out a three-shot lead as he ended on 12-under.

The American took the turn in 31 thanks to four birdies and an eagle before a more fluctuating back nine saw him come home in 33. However, just to finish was quite an accomplishment.

“He kept saying he thought he was going to die,” said Beljan’s caddie, Rick Adcox. “A couple times I thought he might pass out. He just said ‘I’m gonna keep going until I pass out or they take me off.'”

After signing his card, Beljan was taken away on a stretcher and transported to Celebration Hospital to be treated.

In a telephone with the Golf Channel later in the day, Beljan said he intended to play on Saturday.

“As long as they tell me I’m not going to fall over and die,” he said. “I’m hoping it was just a panic attack.”

Behind Beljan is a large group of seven players that includes first round leader Charlie Wi, Charles Howell III and Henrik Stenson

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