Yahoo News Tiger Woods lawyers tell Welsh golf course to 'cease and desist' over 'substantial risk of confusion'
Tiger Woods has issued 'cease and desist' instructions to a new play-and-party golf course in North Wales. A golf attraction on Anglesey, inspired by the US-style, has received a legal notice from representatives of Tiger Woods.
The golf legend, who is currently competing for more success at this week's Masters, is less than impressed with the venture in Llangefni. Paying tribute to PopStroke, a business partly owned by Tiger, local golf professional Matthew Wharton was set to launch a premium mini-golf experience named PuttStroke. However, the name's resemblance to Tiger's enterprise has drawn the attention of the seasoned golfer and his American partners.
Matthew's project, akin to Tiger's PopStroke, aims to offer a family-oriented mix of golfing fun and al fresco dining. His illuminated mini-golf course, complete with catering facilities, is designed to mirror the greens found at traditional golf clubs. For the latest Welsh news delivered to your inbox sign up to our newsletter
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Construction equipment has already arrived at the Golf Mon site owned by Matthew, and he plans to inaugurate parts of the attraction this summer. Yet, before the grand opening, he must find a new moniker for his establishment, a task for which he's seeking the public's input, reports North Wales Live.
"I was a bit shocked to receive the letter," admitted Matthew. "It arrived pretty soon after I announced the venture. I was surprised it had caught Tiger's eye so quickly, but I suppose in a way that's quite a compliment - maybe it shows he's worried about the competition! ".
"I'm happy to go along with the request and look for a new name. I've decided to seek inspiration from the public - to see if they can suggest something suitable. I'd be delighted to hear ideas for the new name so long as it's not Putty McPuttFace or something. We live in a Welsh village and we're trying to promote the Welsh language, 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 on Apple or Android
The intervention by JA Kemp, a leading patent and trademark consultancy based in London, came after the firm spotted an article about Matt's venture on North Wales Live. They argued that there is a "substantial risk of confusion" between his PuttStroke and Tiger's PopStroke due to the golfer's high profile.
Accusing PuttStroke of taking "unfair advantage" of their client's repute, the attorneys instructed Matthew to adhere to several commitments within 14 days to prevent the situation from escalating. These relate chiefly to the cessation of utilising the name 'PuttStroke' in multiple online and physical contexts, including any terms that bear aural resemblance.
Matthew's ambitious plans are to construct a new 18th hole bar and events building, complete with outdoor seating and a grill restaurant. The site already boasts Popty Pizza, a restaurant featuring a wood-fired oven. The golf course will be illuminated, allowing for extended opening hours and transforming it into an evening destination as well as a daytime activity. This concept is gaining popularity in the US, where PopStroke offers luxury clubhouses, indoor children's playgrounds, and premium-turfed 18-hole putting courses.
Since 2019, 13 such courses have been established with a goal of reaching 50. In a similar vein, Matthew's mini golf course will feature high-quality Astroturf fairways, coloured yellow for bunkers. Some holes will stretch up to 20 metres long, each flanked by banks to eliminate the need for boundaries between holes.
The former golf professional from Llandudno and Bangor, set up his Golf Mon venture at the old municipal course and driving range in Llangefni, which closed in 2018 and was subsequently sold. He has expressed his ambition to make his mini-golf site the top attraction on Anglesey.
He has started phase one of the project but needs additional funding to fully realise his vision. He's launched a JustGiving page with a goal of £15,000, offering discounted playing fees, season tickets and children's party hires in return for donations. In a heartfelt message, Matthew wrote about creating "something truly special for Llangefni and beyond". He said: "We envision a top-notch facility that not only meets but exceeds industry standards, offering a memorable and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages."
He warned: "Unfortunately, without your help, we face delays and compromises in construction, potentially impacting the overall experience and longevity of the course. The problem lies in the gap between our aspirations and current resources. Without adequate financial support, the quality and timely completion of the project are at risk."
