Tiger Woods-backed golf-entertainment concept to debut in region

A golf-entertainment concept with putting courses designed by Tiger Woods is coming to the region later this year.

It’s called PopStroke. Named partially for the nickname the golf icon had for his dad, Earl “Pops” Woods, PopStroke features professionally designed putting courses and a full-service restaurant and bar. Technology drives the concept, too, with an iPutt ball golfers can use to keep score after each stroke, via the PopStroke app, and a Jumbotron leaderboard that keeps score for guests and golfers.  

The first location in the region, according to a statement, will be in Fort Myers, at 5551 Six Mile Commercial Court. Scheduled for a summer opening, Fort Myers-based Stevens Construction started the project earlier this year, in conjunction with MHK Architecture & Planning, the release adds. The first PopStroke opened in Port St. Lucie, and another one is in development in Scottsdale, Ariz.

Based in Jupiter, PopStroke is a partnership between PopStroke Entertainment Group and Woods-backed entities TGR and TGR Design. “This is a natural extension of my golf course design philosophy and my TGR Design business,” Woods says in an October 2019 statement that announced the venture. “Our goal has always been to design courses that bring people together and are fun for golfers of all abilities and ages.”

Sticking with the technology theme, food and drinks, including cocktails, wine and craft beer, are available on the app for delivery directly to the PopStroke course location. One of the goals of the concept, much like fast-growing Topgolf, which combines entertainment with a driving range, is to bring groups of people together over golf.

“Some of my happiest memories are spending time with my pops on the golf course having putting contests,” Woods says in the release. “I’m looking forward to others enjoying time with their kids at PopStroke. This is a new way for individuals to experience the game of golf.”