Facility or Affiliation
Burnaby Mountain Golf Course and Driving Range
Why did you become a PGA of Canada Professional?
My first job was at Lions Gate Driving Range in North Vancouver. I loved being at the golf course. Every other sport came easy for me, but golf was the one sport that I had to work hard at. The highs and lows of this game ignited a passion that has not left me yet.
What is the most rewarding part about being a member of the PGA of BC?
Being a member of the PGA of BC has given me the ability to compete. Playing tournaments and meeting other members around the province has given me some great memories to look back on and look forward to.
At which golf facility did you first begin working within the industry, and who was the PGA Professional?
My first facility I worked at as a Professional was at Park Royal Driving Range. There were some pretty epic names to work at that driving range. Mark Ludeman was the Head Teaching Professional, Jack Westover, Mel White, and so many more. They all helped me start out my career. I couldn’t have asked for a better cast of characters to mentor me as I started my career.
Who has influenced your career the most, and how?
I have had the privilege to work with Mark Ludeman at a few facilities. He always leads by example. His dedication to the game, his patience with his colleagues and students, and his relentless work ethic are qualities to inspire towards. He was and is my main golf coach, and always gives me the pep talk to keep me going forward with my own game.
What career path led you to where you are today?
Playing the Assistance tournaments, Hal Eremko recruited me to work for Golf Burnaby. The Park Royal Driving Range was closing, so I made the jump to Burnaby Mountain. I worked as a Class “A” Professional under Don Mark, and later took over Don’s job when he decided to retire. Playing in PGA of BC events has definitely helped me get to the career that I always wanted.
Which significant accomplishments are you most proud of?
Personally, I was able to shoot 67 on the final day at Morningstar Golf Club during the PGA of BC Championship before I knew I was any good at this game. Professionally, I was given the opportunity to teach the Elementary Schools and High Schools for Golf Burnaby. This was a very rewarding opportunity to teach and run the golf programs for beginner golfers within the city. Giving people the chance to swing a golf club for the first time was very rewarding for me.
If you had to share one piece of advice with a new member of our Association, what would it be?
You have to find a balance between your career and your life. This job can be so exciting at times that you don’t see the warning signs of burn out fast enough. Always find time for yourself, family, friends and a round of golf.
What is your most cherished golf memory?
It would have to be watching my dad react to how good my two sons could play at age 10 and 13. He couldn’t believe a 10-year-old could outdrive him.
What is your favourite golf course in British Columbia, and why?
Talking Rock. Nathan Grieve and his staff always welcome us each year. It is always a fun and challenging track.
What is a common misconception that golfers make about what your job entails?
It can be long hours at the golf course, without swinging a golf club. People think that because I work at a golf course, I am always playing and hitting balls. Even when I do have the opportunity to work on my own game, I still feel that I am on the clock. I am not able to ignore the things around the course that need to be attended to. Separating work and play is something that I try and work on every day.
What is an interesting fact about yourself that doesn't involve golf?
I was recruited and played American Football in Aberdeen Scotland. For 6 months I Quarterbacked the Aberdeen Oilers to a 5-3 record against teams from Scotland and England. Living on my own for the first time in another country when I was 22 years old was quite a growing up experience.