Derek Whipple grew up learning the game of golf on the hills of a Donald Ross design in Saint John, NB. He was tutored in the game by two of the greatest mentors in Mr. Bobby Barr and Mr. Marshall McMahon. He went on to win the Southern Conference High School golf championship in 1996, and decided to take his talents to the professional level shortly after his studies were complete at the University of New Brunswick. Derek traveled the country learning more and more about the game and is now located in Vancouver, BC where he is currently a candidate for membership to the PGA of Canada. In 2015 Derek was the recipient of the Jim Gibson Award for his outstanding community leadership and volunteer work.
PGA of BC Professional Spotlight -- June 30, 2021
Why did you become a PGA of Canada Professional?
In university, I was a little lost when it came to a career choice. I was not shy on confidence or potential. Yet nothing was pulling at my strings. During a round of golf that summer at my home course of Westfield G&CC in New Brunswick, I casually stood on the 16th tee at 2-under-par. My playing partner that day, (and one of the most revered members at the club) said, "you should be a professional." I hooked my tee shot out of bounds. But I never felt lost again.
What is the most rewarding part about being a member of the PGA of BC?
I am a big fan of networking and sharing stories with the other members of the PGA of BC. I have met some of the finest men and women in the world. And, as rewarding as it is to learn from each and every one of them, it is even more rewarding when these relationships grow and become lifelong friendships.
At which golf facility did you first begin working within the industry, and who was the PGA Professional?
I first started working as an Applicant at Westfield Golf & CC under Head Professional Marshall McMahon a year after I answered my calling. Unfortunately, I failed the PAT that year. But, I did learn that there was more to golf that I needed to know than just the hitting the ball. I learned humility.
Who has influenced your career the most, and how?
I met with Alan Palmer shortly after becoming a member of the PGA of BC. Alan taught me to embrace my story and my journey. He also challenged me to strengthen my weaknesses and introduced me to the art of career shaping.
What career path led you to where you are today?
After meeting with Alan Palmer I wrote down what I thought were my biggest weaknesses as a young Professional. I wrote down club fitting, technology, branding and networking. A week later I ran into Darcy Dhillon, who approached me to see if I was interested in a job with Titleist.
Which significant accomplishments are you most proud of?
In 2017, I was awarded the PGA of BC's Jim Gibson Scholarship for community leadership and volunteer work.
If you had to share one piece of advice with a new member of our Association, what would it be?
Marry a good person like I did. I love you, Lynnette.
What is your most cherished golf memory?
I've had two holes-in-one. One with my Dad when I was 19. And, the other with Lynnette.
What is your favourite golf course in British Columbia, and why?
That's easy: Bear Mountain! Lynnette and I had our first date there. We loved it so much we got married there on Dec. 23, 2017. I also received an invitation to play in both Champions Tour Pro-Ams there in 2016 and 2017 and met all of my childhood heroes.
