⛳ The 9th Annual Birdie Tussle: Pasadena Pride on the Greens

MADE IN DENA
Oct 26
4 min read

Every fall, Pasadena’s greatest rivalry writes a new chapter — not under Friday night lights, but beneath the early morning sun on the lush greens of Brookside Golf & Country Club.

On Thursday, October 30, 2025, the 9th Annual Birdie Tussle Golf Tournament brings together alumni, educators, and community leaders from both Pasadena High School and John Muir High School for a day that blends competition, camaraderie, and community.

Though these two schools have gone head-to-head for decades in the historic Turkey Tussle, the Birdie Tussle represents something bigger — unity through purpose, as both sides team up to raise funds for their athletic programs and celebrate the shared pride that makes Pasadena strong.

🌹 A Legacy of Giving Back Through Sport

This year’s tournament begins with 6:00 a.m. check-in and warm-up, followed by a 7:45 a.m. caravan to the tee boxes, and an 8:00 a.m. shotgun start. The day wraps with a 2:30 p.m. awards banquet inside Brookside’s Mediterranean Ballroom — complete with laughter, stories, and reflections on what this event truly represents.

Golfers can compete in classic contests like Longest Drive and Closest to the Pin, but 2025 also brings something fresh — an infusion of creativity, energy, and DENA pride straight from the streets of Pasadena.

💥 MADE IN DENA Takes Over the Course — and the Culture

For the first time ever, MADE IN DENA is officially sponsoring and transforming one of the holes into a full-on Hole Experience — a high-energy, interactive zone featuring contests, giveaways, music, and complimentary drinks for every player who passes through.

The entire experience is designed, hosted, and donated by Jason Hardin, founder of MADE IN DENA and proud Pasadena High alumnus.

“I’ve been a part of this tournament since it started,” Hardin shared. “But over the years, I noticed something missing — the excitement, the energy, the community vibe that makes charity golf special. Last year, there were no drinks, no music, no fun on the course. This year, instead of complaining about it, I wanted to be the change and show what’s possible when local people pour into local events.”

For Hardin, this isn’t just about golf — it’s about culture and community.

By taking over a hole and building it into a full MADE IN DENA experience, he’s proving what happens when creativity meets contribution. It’s a reminder that Pasadena’s strength lies not just in its history, but in the people who continuously find new ways to uplift it.

“I wanted to help the Birdie Tussle feel alive again,” Hardin continued. “My goal is to inspire others — business owners, alumni, and organizations — to step up, sponsor a hole, bring something unique, and help this tournament become the unforgettable experience it deserves to be.”

This year’s MADE IN DENA hole will stand as a tribute to local pride — showcasing how fun, philanthropy, and hometown love can come together to create something memorable.

🌟 A Tradition of Leaders and Changemakers

Over the years, the Birdie Tussle has attracted an incredible roster of community advocates and local leaders who believe in the power of giving back. Regular supporters and participants have included:

Each has contributed in their own way — as players, sponsors, or volunteers — helping turn the Birdie Tussle into more than just a fundraiser. It’s a celebration of connection and collaboration that spans generations.

🏌️ Golf with a Purpose

All proceeds from the Birdie Tussle directly support the athletic departments of Pasadena High School and John Muir High School, providing uniforms, equipment, training tools, and facility upgrades.

That means every swing, every sponsorship, and every donation helps create more opportunities for local students — the future athletes, scholars, and leaders of our community.

“The Birdie Tussle reminds us that even rivals can unite for something bigger,” said Hardin. “When our schools win, our community wins.”

🎟️ Join the Movement

Whether you’re a golfer, sponsor, or proud supporter of Pasadena’s youth, this is your chance to be part of something meaningful.

👉 Register now at www.birdietussle.com/register

👉 Interested in sponsorship? Contact Robert Jenkins at 626-945-1922 or bobbyjenkins177@gmail.com

🌄 DENA Strong — On the Course and Beyond

The Birdie Tussle is more than a golf tournament — it’s a living reminder that community is built not by words, but by action.

From the fairways of Brookside to the classrooms of Pasadena, the same spirit drives MADE IN DENA and everyone involved: a commitment to show up, support one another, and keep local traditions alive with love and purpose.

So, whether you swing, sponsor, or simply stop by — be part of the story.Be part of the change.Be MADE IN DENA. 🌹