DENVER (KDVR) — The University of Colorado Buffaloes are back on their home turf this Saturday, facing the Wyoming Cowboys, but for the first time this season, there’s a new member of the team leading the charge.
On Friday, the CU Buffs announced their newest mascot will be making her debut in the sold-out stadium on Saturday, leading the football team onto the field before kickoff at 8:15 p.m. on Folsom Field.
Meet Ralphie VII: A 1-year-old, 700-pound American Bison.
The Buffs have been without a mascot ever since Ember, the former Ralphie, retired in August. The Buffs said Ember was indifferent to running and is happiest at the ranch. The succession plan was in motion for months, and now, the new Ralphie is trained and ready to go.
Ralphie VII, who will be nicknamed by her handlers after her first run, is “definitely not indifferent to running,” according to CU. She is a gift from the Beauprez family, CU alums, and owners of Eagle’s Wing Ranch near Steamboat Springs.
“Ralphie’s run is iconic and our fans, students, faculty, staff, and alumni take an incredible amount of pride in this tradition which transcends sports,” said Taylor Stratton, director of the Ralphie Live Mascot Program. “We’re excited to be adding a new Ralphie to the lineage of incredible buffalo that have represented the University of Colorado and have elevated the fans’ passion for our student-athletes.”
Ralphie VII is ready to run onto the field this Saturday before kickoff. CU recommends being in your seat by 8 p.m. so you don’t miss her debut. The game is currently sold out, but fans can get tickets on other sites like SeatGeek.
