A fourth-generation rodeo contestant, Derek filled his PRCA permit in 1980, working all three riding events. He qualified for his first NFR in 1983 in Oklahoma City, while attending Texas Tech University. In 1984, he qualified for the College Finals Rodeo, winning the NIRA Saddle Bronc Riding and the Average. He was the Saddle Bronc Average winner in the 1986 Texas Circuit Finals and qualified in Saddle Bronc at the NFR in Las Vegas 1985 through 1996, in 1998, and in 1999, including being runner-up to the World Title in 1990. Derek retired from competition in 2000, after surpassing $1 million in winnings. Until 2005, he continued serving on the PRCA Board of Directors and was pick-up man occasionally at various rodeos.
