On Saturday, July 26th, McGregor Square was buzzing with energy, friendly competition, and community connection as we gathered for the 2025 Cottonwood Throwdown, our annual cornhole tournament and fundraiser to support Cottonwood Institute students. With breakfast drinks in hand and the boards set, it was the perfect summer day to show up, play hard, and give back.
We kicked things off with networking bingo and early morning Bloody Marys and mimosas, giving folks a chance to mingle, meet new faces, and reconnect with familiar ones before the tournament began. As bags hit the boards and the sun climbed higher, McGregor Square transformed into a lively hub of friendly rivalry, laughter, and purpose.
Thanks to Anthony’s Pizza and Pasta, Molson Coors, and the generous support of Milepost Zero, our guests were well-fed, well-hydrated, and ready to keep the good times rolling. When teams weren’t competing, they tried their hand at Knock ‘Em Down (bean bags + Nalgene bottles = pure joy), snapped pics for our photo scavenger hunt, and placed bids on a fantastic lineup of auction items – all to support outdoor learning and leadership for students.
Winners scored custom-etched tumblers from EtchTech, along with prizes ranging from Rockies tickets to custom cornhole boards and beverages from Cismontane Brewing. Not too shabby!
This year’s winners brought the heat (and some serious skills):
1. Average Joe’s (Trade Joe’s)
2. Old Baggers (Plante Moran)
3. AXL Owls – (AXL Academy)
Proceeds from the 2025 Cottonwood Throwdown help support our CAP class at AXL Academy, giving students the opportunity to explore Colorado’s natural spaces, build confidence and leadership skills, and take action in their communities.
We’re incredibly grateful to our volunteers, participants, staff, and event partners for helping us keep the event zero waste (shoutout to Scraps!) and full of heart. Whether you were tossing bags, snapping photos, or cheering from the sidelines – thank you for being part of this day!
Special thanks to our amazing 2025 sponsors – see the full list here. Your support powers our work and helps students connect with the outdoors in meaningful ways.
Missed the event but still want to make an impact?
You can still donate to support our event goals. Every gift helps us reach more students through transformative programs like CAP. Make a donation here!
Until next time, keep throwing down – and keep taking action in your community!
