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Writer's pictureMADE IN DENA

IT'S TUSSLE TIME AGAIN IN DENA!



8th Annual Birdie Tussle Charity Golf Tournament
8th Annual Birdie Tussle Charity Golf Tournament

Pasadena, it's time to hit the green for a great cause! The 8th Annual Birdie Tussle Charity Golf Tournament is back on October 31st at Brookside Golf Course, and it’s more than just a day of golf—it’s about celebrating community spirit and supporting the athletic departments of Pasadena High School and John Muir High School. B



ut this event isn't just about raising funds; it’s about continuing a legacy that started over 60 years ago with the legendary Turkey Tussle.


The Legacy of the Turkey Tussle


Before there was a Birdie Tussle, there was the Turkey Tussle—a fierce football rivalry that has defined school spirit in Pasadena for generations. Held annually between Pasadena High School and John Muir High School, the Turkey Tussle is the city’s most anticipated homecoming event, drawing thousands of students, alumni, and community members each year. This rivalry began in 1947 when it was originally played between Pasadena Community College and John Muir Junior College, transitioning in 1954 to the high school matchup we know today.


Jason Hardin with Skyy Wagner on the sidelines of the Turkey Tussle at Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, CA.
Jason Hardin (then publisher of The DENA Magazine) with Skyy Wagner on the sidelines of the 2013 Turkey Tussle at Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, CA.


At the heart of the Turkey Tussle is the Victory Bell, a prized trophy donated by the Santa Fe Railroad in 1955. This bell, which once rang from the top of a steam locomotive, symbolizes the triumph and tradition of the winning team. For over six decades, the winning team has rushed the end zone to ring the bell in celebration, keeping it on their campus for the year. This tradition is more than just a game; it’s a testament to school pride, community rivalry, and the spirit of competition.


The Turkey Tussle will be held on November 1st, 2024, the day after the Birdie Tussle, and it remains a powerful reminder of the deep roots that these schools have in our community.


How the Birdie Tussle Continues the Tradition


The Birdie Tussle was born out of the same competitive spirit that fuels the Turkey Tussle. Founded by alumni of John Muir and Pasadena High Schools, this golf tournament brings together community members, businesses, and sports enthusiasts to support the very programs that make these schools great. By participating in the Birdie Tussle, you’re not just playing a round of golf—you’re contributing to the legacy of local student-athletes and the long-standing tradition of excellence.


Bulldogs, Jason Hardin, Steven Sneed, Tony Brooks, and Michael Towns, at the 2023 7th Annual Birdie Tussle at Brookside Golf Course in Pasadena, CA.
Bulldogs, Jason Hardin, Steven Sneed, Tony Brooks, and Michael Towns, at the 2023 7th Annual Birdie Tussle at Brookside Golf Course in Pasadena, CA.

MADE IN DENA Creator & Owner, Jason Hardin, Tees off at the 2023 7th Annual Birdie Tussle at Brookside Golf Course in Pasadena, CA.
MADE IN DENA Creator & Owner, Jason Hardin, Tees off at the 2023 7th Annual Birdie Tussle at Brookside Golf Course in Pasadena, CA.

Funds raised through the Birdie Tussle go directly towards enhancing athletic programs, providing essential equipment, and upgrading facilities. This support is critical in ensuring that student-athletes have what they need to compete at the highest level, just as their predecessors did in the Turkey Tussle.


How You Can Get Involved


Whether you’re a golf pro or just looking to enjoy a day outdoors, there are plenty of ways to be part of the Birdie Tussle:


1. Register to Play: Gather your friends and join the competition! Playing in the tournament is a fun and impactful way to support local athletics while enjoying a beautiful day on the course.


2. Become a Sponsor: Showcase your business while supporting a great cause. Sponsorship opportunities offer valuable exposure and demonstrate your commitment to the community.


3. Make a Donation: Can’t attend? You can still make a difference by donating. Every contribution helps provide our student-athletes with the resources they need.


4. Volunteer: Not a golfer? Get involved by volunteering your time to help make the event run smoothly. It’s a great way to connect with the community and support our local schools.


Hardin showing off sign at hole sponsored by MADE IN DENA at the 7th Annual Birdie Tussle in 2023.
Hardin showing off sign at hole sponsored by MADE IN DENA at the 7th Annual Birdie Tussle in 2023.

Event Details


Date: October 31st, 2024

Location: Brookside Golf Course, Pasadena

Time: Registration begins at 7:00 AM, with a shotgun start at 8:30 AM

How to Register: Visit www.birdietussle.com to sign up, explore sponsorship opportunities, or make a donation.


Continuing a Pasadena Tradition


The Birdie Tussle is more than just a golf tournament; it’s an extension of the Turkey Tussle’s rich legacy of competition and camaraderie. Both events celebrate the dedication, talent, and community spirit that define Pasadena High School and John Muir High School. By joining us at the Birdie Tussle, you’re helping to sustain these traditions for future generations of student-athletes.


So, grab your clubs, bring your competitive spirit, and join us on October 31st at Brookside Golf Course. Let’s swing for a cause and keep the Pasadena rivalry alive. Whether you play, sponsor, donate, or volunteer, your participation makes a difference.


For more information or to get involved, visit www.birdietussle.com. We can’t wait to see you there!


Let’s keep the tradition going and make this year’s Birdie Tussle the most memorable one yet. See you on the green!


New Gear by MADE IN DENA

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