Callaway’s Bid to Halt Golf Ball Sale Denied

A U.S. district judge denied a motion by Callaway Golf Co. to prevent Evenflo & Spalding Holding Corp.’s Spalding Sports Worldwide Inc. from selling golf balls in packaging that uses Callaway Golf’s name. After a one-hour hearing, Judge Alicemarie Stotler in Santa Ana dismissed Callaway’s lawsuit that sought a temporary injunction to prevent Spalding from shipping the Top-Flite Ball/Club System C golf ball, which it says is designed to match Callaway’s clubs. A Spalding spokesman said the new golf balls will be shipped starting next week. Callaway claimed that Spalding’s packaging, with a picture of one of the company’s Big Bertha clubs, is deceptive. The company also alleges Spalding is claiming its new ball is designed to be the longest and most accurate golf ball a player can use with three different Callaway clubs. Carlsbad-based Callaway Golf is the world’s largest seller of premium golf clubs. Spalding makes a range of sporting goods. Spalding’s packaging includes a disclaimer saying Callaway did not participate in the design, production or sale of the balls. Callaway couldn’t be reached for comment on the decision. Callaway shares fell 44 cents to close at $28.31 on the NYSE.