Tiger Woods has issued a ‘cease and desist’ order to a new play and party golf course in North Wales. A US-inspired golf resort on Anglesey has received a legal notice from Tiger Woods’ representatives.
The golf legend, who is currently vying for further success at this week’s Masters, was less than impressed by the attempt at Llangefni. In a nod to PopStroke, a business partially owned by Tiger, local golf pro Matthew Wharton was preparing to launch a premium mini-golf experience called PuttStroke. However, the similarity of the name to Tiger’s initiative attracted the attention of the experienced golfer and his American partners.
Matthew’s project, similar to Tiger’s PopStroke, aims to offer a family-oriented mix of golf fun and al fresco dining. The illuminated mini golf course, complete with food and beverage facilities, was designed to reflect the greens found in traditional golf clubs. For the latest Wales news delivered to your inbox sign up to our newsletter
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Construction equipment has already arrived at the Golf Mon course, which Matthew owns, and he plans to open parts of the attraction this summer. However, before the grand opening, he needs to find a new name for his facility and is seeking public input on the task, North Wales Live reported.
“I was a little surprised when I got the letter,” Matthew admitted. “It came very soon after I announced the initiative. I was surprised it caught Tiger’s attention so quickly, but I guess it was quite a compliment in a way – perhaps it shows he’s worried about the competition!”.
“I’m happy to oblige the request and look for a new name. I’ve decided to take inspiration from the public to see if they can suggest something suitable. I’d be happy to hear ideas for a new name. As long as it’s not Putty McPuttFace or something like that, we live in a Welsh village and want to promote the Welsh language.” “We’re working on it, so it would be good to hear suggestions for names that would translate well and put Welsh first.” Get the best user experience with WalesOnline’s Premium app Apple or Android
The intervention from leading London-based patent and trademark consultancy JA Kemp came after the firm noticed an article about Matt’s initiative in North Wales Live. They argued that there was a “significant risk of confusion” between PuttStroke and Tiger’s PopStroke due to the golfer’s high profile.
Lawyers accused PuttStroke of taking “unfair advantage” of their client’s reputation and instructed Matthew to comply with various commitments within 14 days to prevent the situation from escalating further. These mainly concern stopping the use of the name ‘PuttStroke’ in multiple online and physical contexts, including terms that bear auditory similarity.
Matthew’s ambitious plans are to build a new 18th hole bar and events building, complete with outdoor seating and a grill restaurant. The site already includes Popty Pizza, a restaurant with a wood-burning oven. The golf course will be illuminated, allowing longer working hours and turning it into an activity in the evening as well as during the day. The concept is gaining popularity in the United States, where PopStroke offers luxury clubhouses, indoor children’s playgrounds and 18-hole golf courses with premium turf.
Since 2019, 13 such sites have been established, with a target of reaching 50. Similarly, Matthew’s mini golf course will feature high-quality Astroturf fairways in yellow for the bunkers. Some holes will be up to 20 meters in length and each will be surrounded by berms to eliminate the need for boundaries between holes.
The former golf professional from Llandudno and Bangor founded his Golf Mon venture on the former council course and driving range at Llangefni; This field closed in 2018 and was later sold. He expressed his desire to make the mini golf course Anglesey’s top attraction.
He has started the first phase of the project but needs additional funding to fully realize his vision. It has launched a JustGiving page with a target of £15,000, offering discounted playing fees, season tickets and children’s party hire in exchange for donations. In a heartfelt message, Matthew spoke of creating “something truly special for Llangefni and beyond.” “We envision a world-class facility that not only meets but exceeds industry standards, providing visitors of all ages with a memorable and enjoyable experience,” He said.
He warned: “Unfortunately, without your help, we face delays and compromises in construction, which can affect the overall experience and longevity of the course. The problem lies in the gap between our goals and the resources available. Without sufficient financial support, the quality and timely completion of the Project are at risk .”