Karl Budge, ASB Classic Tournament Director and Owner of the Piha Pro World Surf League event, Talks Learning From Mistakes
How Do You Stay Motivated?
I dropped out of school at 16 and wasn’t really expected to achieve too much. I think that chip has stayed on my shoulder and acts as a pretty good motivator.
With the ASB Classic, it has been pretty cool to have a little tournament at the bottom of the world win awards for best event and even consult to bigger tournaments on how events should be run. That keeps me motivated to strive to be better year on year.
If You Didn’t Need Money, What Would You Do?
Definitely sleep more! Tragically, I would probably keep running the ASB Classic because I love it. It is my hobby as much as my job. I’d certainly take my family with me on overseas trips more. So probably travel more, eat more, drink more and have a personal trainer at all times.
What Is The Secret To Success?
Following your true north, whatever that might be. If you know where that is, stay on course, hold yourself accountable and you will achieve it.
What Is The Worst Mistake You’ve Made And How Did You Fix It?
There have been a few! Turning down a job at the NFL in New York to take a role with Manchester United, only for my UK visa not to be approved, would rank up there. But when you’re entrepreneurial, there are always risks.
I think learning the balance of how much you can take on, what risks are worth taking and what you should say no to is pretty critical. This really only comes from experience and talking to those who have been there before.
What Is The Best Bit Of Advice, Or Quote, That Resonates With You?
A school teacher once told me talking sport would never get me anywhere. I’ve spent the last 20 years trying to prove him wrong! However, I do love the quote, “The best way to reach your dreams is to wake up.”
What’s Your Favourite Restaurant?
I love Cotto on K’Road, but I do go through about 10 of Josh Emett’s Hawker & Rolls during the ASB Classic each year. Thankfully they have a pop up on site at the tournament!
What Makes You Feel Alive?
Facing the media after a star player has lost their match, or a match has been rained out, certainly gets your heart racing a fair bit! But any time up at the beach in Omaha with my wife and daughter – that’s my happy place.
