Perth, August 13, 2025
News Summary
Perth entrepreneur Mario Caya’s BirTee Golf Tees have gained significant attention after being featured in the new film Happy Gilmore 2. The unique tees, designed to mimic badminton birdies and available in various heights, offer a new way for golfers to play. Caya’s journey from backyard experiment to international success illustrates innovation and resilience. With the endorsement from professional golf organizations, BirTee tees are now sold globally while supporting local production in Canada.
Perth Entrepreneur’s BirTee Golf Tees Make a Splash in Happy Gilmore 2
Excitement is buzzing in Perth as local entrepreneur Mario Caya’s innovative product, BirTee Golf Tees, has made its way into the spotlight thanks to the newly released film Happy Gilmore 2. This Netflix gem, debuting in 2025, has put a quirky twist on the golfing world, showcasing Caya’s unique golf tees during a memorable scene around 32:16 in the movie. In this moment, the iconic character Happy Gilmore uses a golf simulator, prominently featuring the remarkable BirTee Golf Tees.
A Game-Changer in Golfing
So, what exactly are BirTee Golf Tees? Far from the standard tees you’re accustomed to, these little wonders are designed to look like a badminton birdie. They hold a golf ball at varying heights, from a modest 1/4 inch to a lofty 2 inches. Unlike traditional tees that require a push into the ground, BirTee tees rest comfortably atop the grass, allowing the ball to perch above. This feature not only simplifies setup but also enhances a golfer’s experience, providing a more consistent playing field with each swing.
From Backyard Idea to Global Presence
The journey began in 2005 when Caya was leisurely practicing in his backyard. Using an old badminton birdie as a safer alternative to plastic golf balls sparked the initial idea for what would become the BirTee brand. After many experiments with the birdies, he crafted a novel height system, which formed the foundation of his business.
Initially, the road wasn’t easy. The company operated at a loss for over a decade, demonstrating Caya’s dedication and resilience. It wasn’t until 2016 at a Myrtle Beach golf show that BirTee finally gained traction, capturing the attention of golf enthusiasts everywhere. This turning point showcased the product’s potential and paved the way for a blossoming business.
The Big Break with Professional Approval
Things really started to pick up when Caya received approval from the United States Golf Association and R&A, marking BirTee tees as officially eligible for professional competitions. This recognition gave the product a significant boost and opened doors for expansion into the competitive golf world.
Over the years, BirTee tees have continuously evolved. The company has collaborated with Queen’s University students to develop a new type of plastic, thus improving durability and ensuring that these tees can withstand the rigors of the game.
Global Reach and Local Roots
Today, BirTee has expanded its reach, selling products across North America, Europe, and Oceania. Interestingly, Iceland has become a notable market due to the high number of golf courses per capita and the hard ground conditions that BirTee tees are particularly suited for. It’s a remarkable feat for a product birthed from a backyard experiment.
Caya maintains a strong commitment to local production. Every aspect of the BirTee creation process is sourced and manufactured right here in Canada. L-D Tool & Die in Stittsville is responsible for the manufacturing, while labels are printed by Impression Printing in Smiths Falls, and packaging takes place right from Caya’s basement. This kind of dedication to local business not only supports the community but also ensures quality control and sustainability in production.
Looking Ahead
The unexpected feature in Happy Gilmore 2 has put a bright spotlight on BirTee Golf Tees, attracting a wave of new interest from golfers and fans alike. Caya’s journey from a backyard invention to a celebrated product in a major film is inspiring. It shows just how innovative thinking and perseverance can lead to success, and it leaves us excited to see what the future holds for this local entrepreneur and his fantastic creation.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- The Whig: From a Perth Basement to Netflix’s Biggest Golf Movie of the Summer
- Wikipedia: Golf
- Golf Digest: British Open 2025 Tee Times
- Google Search: BirTee Golf Tees
- Perth Is OK: CBCO Brewing Margaret River Summer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf
- Golf Digest: 20 Handicapper Pulled Off Something Even Tiger Woods Can Only Dream About
- Google News: Happy Gilmore 2
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
