As Men’s Health Week begins today, X-Golf shares the inspiring story of Chris Perry, a Buderim father and avid X-Golfer who is defying the odds and reclaiming his life one swing at a time.
Less than a year ago, Chris was paralysed from the neck down after a mountain biking accident caused a severe spinal cord injury. Doctors gave him just a one per cent chance of regaining mobility, but Chris refused to accept those odds.
“The toughest part has been retraining my body to do things I used to know how to do,” he said.
“But I treat it like sport – when you put in the work, you see the results.”
Against expectations, Chris is walking again and rebuilding his strength every day. A key part of his recovery has been playing at X-Golf, which has become more than a pastime – it’s a vital form of physical therapy and mental resilience.
“I really rediscovered my passion for golf since the accident,” Chris said.
“It’s been great for regaining my balance and strength. My swing has improved from 80m to 100m in just a couple of months.”
A lifelong sportsman, Chris also mentors a senior side at the North Shore Jets AFL Club, helping others set goals and overcome setbacks.
His journey has made him a vocal advocate for men’s health, sharing his story in podcasts, media and fundraising events for Wishlist, the foundation that supported him through five months in hospital.
“Getting stronger every day brings more confidence,” he said.
“That motivation definitely comes from sport. You have to put in the work to get the best out of yourself.”
Though not yet back on his mountain bike, golf remains his “happy place”, and beyond physical benefits, it offers camaraderie and encouragement which have played a part in Chris’s recovery so far.
A long-time member of X-Golf Maroochydore, Chris has rejoined the X-League and recruited friends to form a team for this year’s competition.
Ahead of Men’s Health Week, Chris offers advice for men facing health challenges of all kinds: “Don’t set the bar too high. Set small goals, have a few wins and you’ll find the results will come.”
From June 9 to 15, X-Golf invites men of all ages and abilities to experience the power of movement, mate ship and mental wellbeing this Men’s Health Week. Whether swinging clubs for fitness or friendship, the journey to better health starts with one step or one swing at a time.
