Local family keeping original Putt-Putt alive

WARREN, Ohio (WKBN) – There are only several original Putt-Putts left in the world and one of them is in Warren.

Like Kleenex and tissues, Putt-Putt is a brand of miniature golf.

Roberta Cykon and her husband own the Warren Putt-Putt — which opened in 1962 — and has always been located on Route 422. It was designed by Putt-Putt founder Donald Clayton.

Cykon’s father-in-law owned the batting cages behind the Putt-Putt. Then eight years ago when the previous owner wanted to sell the course, the Cykons bought it to save it.

“Because there was a local business that wanted to purchase it and they were going to demolish it to take over the property,’ Cykon said.

At its peak, there were 400 Putt-Putts worldwide. Today there are 39, most of which are fun centers with go-carts and video games.

“We’re one of the last vintage Clayton courses, so there are like five or six remaining,” Cykon said.

“They tried to get us to make it a fun center and we refused,” she said.

Cykon says they want to keep it original — but that being said — she plans to retire in nine years.

“We are hoping a family comes forth and wants to buy the facility. If not, it’s going to get demolished.”

The Warren Putt-Putt has what’s called goofy golf where large animals on perches block the holes but they also have a pro course.

Bobby Heasley is the tournament director. He said they have had people come from Florida, Pennsylvania, New York, and elsewhere to play.

Last Sunday, the Warren Putt-Putt hosted its big tournament of the year — the Ron Killian Memorial. There were 51 players. They also have tournaments every Saturday at 6 p.m.

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