Golf loses one of its biggest characters: Derrick Pillage dies aged 95 – Golf News

A Life Shaped by Golf

Golf has lost one of its most colourful and influential figures with the passing of Derrick Pillage, a larger-than-life character whose impact on the professional game spanned more than seven decades.

Born in 1930 in Devonport, Plymouth, Pillage’s life took an extraordinary turn at a young age when he was sent by boat from England to the United States to live with his aunt and uncle in California.

They worked at the pro shop of Santa Ana Golf Club and, with his uncle as club professional and his aunt an avid golfer, the game quickly became Derrick’s destiny.

A Prodigious Talent and a Colourful Nickname

He grew up immersed in golf, caddying with friends for 25 cents a bag, playing endlessly, and by the age of 14 had reached scratch handicap. Living close to the Mexican border, he earned the nickname “the blue-eyed Mexican,” a nod to his striking blue eyes and vibrant personality, a feature people would remark on throughout his life.

Service, Boxing and Early Lessons in Leadership

Alongside golf, Pillage also boxed and represented the Navy during his national service. Even then, the game remained central to his life, and he spent much of his time giving golf lessons to officers.

After completing his service, he returned to the United States and earned a golfing scholarship to the University of Southern California, further cementing his place in the sport.

A Career-Changing Injury and an Unbreakable Spirit

At just 24, his promising playing career was derailed by a freak accident. A poor bunker shot resulted in a broken back, leaving him confined to a wheelchair for two years. Doctors told him he would never walk properly again, let alone play competitive golf.

Derrick defied those predictions, rebuilding his life and finding new ways to influence the game he loved.

Hollywood, Zulu and a Life Beyond the Fairways

In his mid-twenties, Pillage worked in public relations for Warner Bros, where he became friends with actor Stanley Baker and even made a cameo appearance in the classic film Zulu. Though his path briefly took him to Hollywood, golf was never far from his thoughts.

Golf’s Most Influential Managers

Pillage went on to forge a formidable career in golf management, representing some of the biggest names in the sport, including Sandy Lyle, Lee Trevino, Bernard Gallacher, Sam Torrance, Max Faulkner and Brian Barnes. At his peak, he managed around 35 players and was regarded as one of the most influential figures in professional golf.

Sports Management

One contemporary newspaper clipping captured his standing perfectly:
“Pillage has a list of runners capable of winning everything in the world and is a rival to Mark McCormack’s IMG top spot on the management tree.”

The Golfing Lions

Derrick later worked with British Caledonian Airways and founded the Golfing Lions, a group of professional golfers who toured the world, spreading the game to new audiences and regions.

Shaping Careers Through the Safari Circuit

He was instrumental in the creation of the Safari Circuit, a groundbreaking initiative that helped shape the careers of many players by providing competitive opportunities in emerging golfing nations.

Writer, Umpire and Trusted Voice of the Game

Beyond management, Pillage also made his mark as a golf writer, contributing to publications including Golf News and Golf Monthly. He served as a tournament press officer and umpire at numerous professional events, including the Ryder Cup and on the European Tour.

St Mellion Trophy

Derrick was also involved in setting up the St Mellion Trophy, working alongside legends such as Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, Sandy Lyle and Nick Faldo.

Tributes from Golf’s Greatest Names

Tributes from across the golfing world underline the scale of his contribution.

“Derrick’s contribution to the game of golf has been a great one,” said Jack Nicklaus.

“You were a great manager, my man. You were way before your time,” added Lee Trevino.

“Derrick, you were cheeky, you could have been a salesman to anything, but you certainly left a footprint in the game,” said Peter Alliss. “You were a good man and added to the quality of golf.”

Sam Torrance recalled: “I was watching Zulu and thinking of him.”

Sandy Lyle reflected on “the great times and victories we had and the fantastic memories with the Golfing Lions, playing in places like Brazil, Argentina and Zambia.”

Tom Watson joked: “I am still drying out from the time spent at St Mellion playing with Jack years ago!!”

Bernard Gallacher paid a deeply personal tribute:
“Derrick gave me the best advice I ever received when turning professional, both on and off the golf course… He is responsible for me being the Head Pro at one of the world’s best clubs for over 25 years, and I will never forget that.”

Broadcaster Ewen Murray added:
“There were many professional golfers who benefitted greatly from having Derrick as a manager and friend. I am one of these… His contribution to professional golf was more than significant. His long and successful life, I rejoice, and it was a privilege to be part of his 95 years.”

A Legacy That Will Endure

Derrick Pillage leaves behind a legacy defined by resilience, vision, sharp wit and an unwavering love for the game, a true original whose influence will continue to be felt throughout the world of golf.

There is only one Derrick Pillage