James Gribble

James Gribble, the founder of Empower Golf, is an Australian who is passionate about the ocean, adventure travel, people and golf.

James worked in investment banking in London for 8 years after completing an economics degree from the University of Sydney.

In late 2008, James broke his neck whilst backpacking in Zambia, Africa, becoming quadriplegic. For four years he focused on an intensive rehabilitation program, proving many doctors wrong with his significant recovery. He is now able to walk short distances on crutches and crucially, returned to many of his passions.

Before his injury, James had a low single digit handicap and played golf around the world. After a long struggle, he is now able to play golf and currently is the highest ranked quadriplegic golfer in the world.
James has experienced firsthand the very positive impact that recreation and travel can have on any individual, be they fully able-bodied or less able-bodied.

The psychological, physical and social benefits associated with golf inspired James to establish Empower Golf and he is in the process of launching Empower Life. Their mission is to make golf, other recreations and travel, accessible to Australians of all abilities.

James has a strong focus on improving the lives of disabled individuals, working closely with the Royal Rehabilitation Hospital in Sydney. He is also an Ambassador for Sargood on Collaroy, located on the Northern Beaches of Sydney, NSW, the world’s only resort for people who’ve suffered a catastrophic spinal injury.

James combines his passions and helping those with disabilities with the skills of a corporate background to change people’s lives.

Finally, he is a motivational speaker whose honest, raw, and emotional story is a lesson in humility, gratitude and contribution to community. James is currently working on a feature length documentary called Tiger Fish that explores his journey to date and his return to the site of his accident in Africa.