The Colorado buffalo mascot is an iconic symbol of the University of Colorado Boulder. This mascot, known as Ralphie, is a live buffalo that leads the football team onto the field before games. Ralphie is a beloved figure and embodies the spirit and strength of the university. The tradition of having a live buffalo as the mascot dates back to 1934 when a group of students brought a bison calf to campus. Over the years, the mascot has evolved and become a cherished part of the university's identity. Today, Ralphie is one of the most recognizable mascots in college sports.
While the Ralphie live mascot program is largely popular, Stratton said she has received some negative feedback about keeping a buffalo as a live mascot.
For the last three seasons, Breck Hesselman has had an up close and personal view of Ralphie, who is a female more about that later , as one of the elite group of 15 CU students who are the gate keepers so to speak, for the iconic mascot. While the Ralphie live mascot program is largely popular, Stratton said she has received some negative feedback about keeping a buffalo as a live mascot.
Today, Ralphie is one of the most recognizable mascots in college sports. Ralphie is cared for by the Ralphie Program, which is run by a team of student handlers. These handlers are responsible for training and transporting Ralphie during football games and other events.
Why Name a Lady Buffalo “Ralphie”?
This title question, and the more general “Why a buffalo for a mascot?” answered below. Time to brush up on Buff history.
Ralphie is the female buffalo mascot for CU Boulder. But why does this female buffalo sport a male name? And why did CU choose a bison mascot in the first place?
The tradition began in 1934 when the university newspaper selected “Buffaloes” as the nickname for the university students. Three weeks later, a few students paid a rancher $25 to rent a bison calf and a cowboy to handle her. The calf had to be managed by all 4 students plus the ranch hand at the 7-0 winning game at University of Denver.
Male Bison (above) and Female Bison (below)
Bison appeared occasionally at CU games after that, sometimes in pens and sometimes driven around the field in cages. In the 1940s CU got its own baby bison and kept it in a pen at the University Riding Academy. This little buffalo was not the first official mascot though. That title goes to “Mr. Chips,” the buffalo who first premiered at the 1957 CU Days kickoff rally. Mr. Chips was cared for by a men’s honorary.
The first Ralphie was donated to CU in 1966. The bison was originally named Ralph, because that’s the sound it made while running. But, one student from Delta Delta Delta pointed out the female anatomy of the little buffalo. So the name was changed to Ralphie… Because that was more feminine in their minds (we assume).
But, why a female buffalo? Well if you’ve ever seen a male bison, you may understand. Females are smaller and far less aggressive than males. When it comes down to it bison are wild animals,
Ralph V temporarily escaping her handlers. Photo Credit: Lady Arwyn
and it’s easier to handle a smaller animal. The trained Ralphie Handlers still have to wear her out before a run through the stadium. Without pre-exhausting her she would be much harder to direct around the football field.
Ralphie I served from 1966-1978. CU is now at Ralphie V, a feisty addition to the line of spunky female buffalo which have given CU national attention.
We hope you have a bit more appreciation for the Buffs and their mascot today. Like us on Facebook and leave comments or questions below. Have a great day!
“[We] never let them pet her because I wouldn't like to be grabbed by strangers and we give her the same courtesy,” said Stratton. “A large part of what the team does is they stand there around her to make sure she knows that they're with her and she feels safe and secure.”
The training process is rigorous and requires the handlers to build a bond of trust and respect with the buffalo. The sight of Ralphie sprinting across the field is a highlight of every home football game. The sheer power and energy displayed by the buffalo is awe-inspiring and captures the attention of fans and opponents alike. It is a unique tradition that sets the University of Colorado Boulder apart from other schools. In addition to football games, Ralphie also makes appearances at various events and rallies throughout the year. The buffalo is a symbol of pride and unity for the university community. It represents the strength, determination, and spirit of the students, faculty, and alumni. Overall, the Colorado buffalo mascot is a cherished and integral part of University of Colorado Boulder. It embodies the university's values and traditions, and serves as a powerful symbol of pride and community. Whether it's on the football field or at a rally, Ralphie is always a crowd favorite and a true representation of the university's spirit..
Reviews for "The Colorado Buffalo Mascot: Behind the Mask"
1. John - 2 stars - The Colorado buffalo mascot is completely outdated and lacks creativity. It's just a guy running around in a buffalo costume. I expected something more dynamic and exciting for a college mascot. The lack of innovation is disappointing and it fails to generate any real enthusiasm or pride among the fans. Overall, I think they could do much better with their mascot choice.
2. Sarah - 1 star - I found the Colorado buffalo mascot to be quite insensitive. Using a Native American symbol without considering the cultural implications is disrespectful and offensive. It's time for the university to reevaluate their choice of mascot and adopt something more inclusive and representative. I hope they hear the concerns of the community and make the necessary changes.
3. Alex - 2 stars - The Colorado buffalo mascot is plain boring. It lacks personality and fails to engage with the fans. It feels like a missed opportunity to really create something memorable and unique for the university. I believe they should invest in a new mascot that brings excitement and energy to their games and events. This old buffalo costume is just stale and uninspiring.
4. Emily - 1 star - The Colorado buffalo mascot is just a lousy attempt at boosting school spirit. It does nothing to enhance the game experience or foster a sense of community. It's time for the university to retire this tired mascot and come up with something that truly represents the spirit and values of the institution. I'm disappointed every time I see that boring buffalo trotting around the field.
5. Mike - 2 stars - As a long-time fan of the Colorado Buffaloes, I've never really been a fan of the mascot. It lacks charisma and fails to capture the essence of the team's spirit. It's time for an upgrade that reflects the enthusiasm and determination of the players and fans. We need a mascot that can rally the crowd and ignite the atmosphere during the games. The current buffalo falls short in that regard.