What the Routeburn Track taught me
When a friend asked if I’d like to join her in walking the Routeburn Track—a 33-kilometer trail stretching across New Zealand’s South Island, boasting breathtaking views of alpine peaks, verdant valleys, and cascading waterfalls—I didn’t hesitate. I was sold, signed up, and… promptly did no preparation.
“How hard can it be?” I thought. “It’s only two days and the equivalent of four rounds of golf.” Little did I know the life lessons I was about to receive would extend far beyond the physical challenge. Resilience, adaptability, and optimism became my guiding principles as I faced adversity every step of the way.
The challenges of the Routeburn Track each offered valuable lessons not just for life, but also for golf. Here’s what the experience taught me about myself, perseverance, and the game I love.
The Choice to Commit
I had time to prepare better, but I chose not to. Much like when a golfer commits to playing in their first club championship months in advance but neglects to practice, the decision to go unprepared was mine. The key, however, was that I never let my lack of preparation become an excuse. Once I committed, I knew I had to follow through. There was no turning back.
This mindset can translate directly to golf. If you’ve committed to competing, you don’t back out because you’re not fully ready. You dig in and do your best with what you’ve got.
A Shift in Perspective
Perspective was my constant companion on the track. At one point, someone assured us there was only “15-20 minutes left” of the climb. Forty gruelling minutes later, we were still climbing, faced with a sign indicating another 30 minutes to go. That moment was brutal. But I learned that shifting expectations and embracing the present challenge made all the difference.
In golf, too, the goalposts can shift. A tough start, unexpected weather, or an out-of-nowhere triple bogey can derail you if you’re fixated on an outcome. Instead, focusing on the immediate task, and celebrate the small wins - one swing, one shot, one step at a time. This approach can shift your perspective as you continue to celebrate your own achievements – even if they are only the smallest of victories.
Focus on the Process
While it’s important to have a vision of the ultimate goal (in my case, just crossing the finish line), I realised the importance of breaking it down into smaller, manageable goals. I focused on reaching the next checkpoint, then finding flow in every step. Each stride became part of a process, and as I leaned into it, the journey itself became rewarding. I had begun to run my own race – not someone else’s.
Golfers who immerse themselves in their routines, concentrating on the process rather than the score, find that flow comes naturally. The result? Better performance and more enjoyment.
Control the Controllables
One of days of the trek brought three hours of rain pelting our faces, gale-force winds, and the looming threat of hypothermia. Despite all my layers, I couldn’t stop shivering. My hands were stiff, my teeth chattered, and my mind fogged. But there was no point in fixating on the misery. Instead, I focused on what I could control - staying calm, keeping moving, and clutching a cup of tea from a kind fellow hiker to warm up.
The parallels to golf are clear. When conditions are tough, whether it’s rain, wind, or a string of bad holes, focusing on what’s within your control - your swing, your mindset, your next decision – will help find your flow and make all the difference.
Preparation Matters—But So Does Letting Go
Hindsight is a wonderful teacher. Had I prepared, I’d have packed thermals, better waterproof gear, and maybe trained for the sheer endurance required. Yet, part of me values the raw, unfiltered experience of tackling something I wasn’t entirely ready for. It forced me to let go of perfection and embrace perseverance.
Golf, like life, is about balancing preparation with adaptability. Yes, preparation gives you an edge, but the ability to let go and respond to the moment can often determine your success.
Shared Connection
One of the most rewarding aspects of the Routeburn Track was debriefing with others at the end of each day. Sharing stories of challenges and triumphs created a bond that made the experience even more meaningful.
Many consider golf as a solo pursuit, but in reality, golf is enriched by shared experiences. Whether it’s a post-round debrief with playing partners, sharing stories while on course or simply celebrating small victories with your team or coach - connection amplifies the joy of the journey.
Staying Calm Under Pressure
When faced with discomfort, be it fatigue, weather, or frustration, I reminded myself that getting angry or overwhelmed simply won’t help. Staying calm and taking a practical approach kept me moving forward. This emotional regulation is crucial in golf. Reacting negatively to a bad shot or unfavourable conditions can derail a round, but responding with composure keeps you in the game.
Embracing the Unknown
Ultimately, the Routeburn Track taught me to embrace the unknown and thrive outside my comfort zone. Every misstep, every unforeseen challenge, was an opportunity to grow. In golf, stepping out of your comfort zone—trying a new shot, competing in a tournament, or playing in unfamiliar conditions—can lead to breakthroughs. Success builds confidence, and confidence fuels further success.
A Path of Lessons
Crossing the finish line was emotional. I’d done it with no preparation and had to dig deeper than I thought possible, with sheer determination to finish what I set out to do even when challenges arose and motivation faded. The Routeburn Track reminded me of Jack Nicklaus’ words: "resolve never to quit, never to give up, no matter what the situation."
Each step of that trail, with its parallels to golf, taught me to embrace the journey, not just the destination. Whether it’s lacing up hiking boots or gripping a golf club, life’s most profound lessons often come when we take the next step—despite the discomfort, despite the uncertainty. The beauty lies in moving forward.