The USC Traveler Mascot, also known as Traveler, is a beloved symbol and tradition at the University of Southern California. Traveler is a white horse that is ridden by a Trojan warrior at USC home football games and other athletic events. The history of Traveler dates back to 1961 when Richard Saukko, a USC alumni and owner of a local horse stable, brought his horse to a USC football game as a way to drum up some spirit. The horse was an immediate hit with the fans, and soon after, he was officially named Traveler. Over the years, Traveler has become an integral part of USC's traditions and school spirit. The horse and rider gallop around the field after each USC touchdown, while the crowd cheers and chants "Trojan Warriors!" This exhilarating display brings a sense of excitement and pride to the USC community.
The earliest mention of a connection between Lee and USC’s Traveler appears to have come in Saukko’s four-paragraph obituary in The Times.
At the rally, according to the student newspaper the Daily Trojan, Saphia Jackson, co-director of the USC Black Student Assembly, asked students not to be quiet, and reminded that white supremacy hits close to home and referenced the name of the Trojans mascot. When Richard Saukko galloped his chalk-white Arabian horse named Traveler around the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum almost 56 years ago, it was supposed to be a one-time stunt.
The horse and rider gallop around the field after each USC touchdown, while the crowd cheers and chants "Trojan Warriors!" This exhilarating display brings a sense of excitement and pride to the USC community. Traveler has undergone a few changes and updates over the years. The original Traveler passed away in 1992, and since then, there have been several subsequent horses that have taken on the role of USC Traveler.
Usc traveler mascott
USC Mascot
“In 2004 my husband Bill and I had the fabulous opportunity to put the Andalusian and Lusitano breed in the public eye indefinitely. We provided a permanent endowment for the University of Southern California’s famous mascot, Traveler. Now, as long as there is a “Traveler”, he will be an Iberian Warmblood.
Our beautiful farm is now known as “The Home of Traveler” and I hope to be breeding future USC Mascots at our facility. Unfortunately, my husband, Bill, passed in January of 2013. I will honor him by the continuation of breeding these noble horses for another “Traveler”. USC is a very important part of his legacy and our family.”
~ Nadine Tilley
THE FOLLOWING IS AN EXCERPT FROM AN ARTICLE BY MEAGHAN AGNEW, PUBLISHED IN THE USC NEWS:
“Supporting a Trojan tradition as entrenched as a “Fight on!” refrain USC alumnus Bill Tilley and his wife, Nadine, have given $2 million to the Traveler Mascot Program to assure the future of the university’s equine icon.
The Tilleys – longtime devotees of the USC football program who have attended most home games since marrying in 1975 – hold a special affection for the team’s mascot.
Nadine Tilley breeds and trains champion Spanish Andalusian Horses, the same breed as Traveler.
It was she who inspired the late Richard Saukko, Traveler’s original rider, to change the breed of future Travelers after he spotted her atop a majestic Andalusian in the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade.
The couple saw their gift as a way to “assure Traveler’s immortality”.
January 1, 2015
USC’s Traveler is led riderless in honor of Rose Parade grand marshal, Louis Zamperini, who passed away last year. Read the full article…
If you are interested in booking Traveler for your special event, please contact Joanne Asman at: 818.842.8444, or email: [email protected].
May 19, 2018- INDUCTED INTO THE HALL OF FAME
“Traveler, the noble white horse that appears at all USC home football games with a regal Trojan warrior astride, is one of the most iconic collegiate mascots. Traveler first appeared at a USC football game in 1961 and, ever since, whenever USC scores, the band plays “Conquest” and Traveler gallops around the Coliseum.
Traveler also has appeared at some away football games (the 2005 Orange Bowl in Miami is the farthest), as well as at other Trojan events, and at grade high schools, at charity functions, in parades (including nearly 50 Rose Parades), on screen and stage, in commercials and at personal appearances with many celebrities.”
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USC Mascot
Each new Traveler is carefully trained and selected to ensure they are a suitable fit for the position. In addition to football games, Traveler also makes appearances at other USC events, such as the annual Homecoming Parade and various alumni events. The presence of Traveler adds an element of tradition and prestige to these occasions, further enhancing the USC experience. The USC Traveler Mascot represents more than just a horse - it symbolizes the strength, spirit, and tradition of the Trojan community. Seeing Traveler galloping across the field is a powerful reminder of the rich history and traditions that make USC a special place. Whether it's on the football field or at a school event, Traveler continues to inspire and unite the USC community..
Reviews for "The USC Traveler: More than Just a Mascot"
1. John - 1 star
I was very disappointed with the USC traveler mascot. It was poorly designed and didn't resemble a horse at all. The colors were dull and the overall appearance was unimpressive. Additionally, the mascot's movements were awkward and it didn't interact well with the crowd. I expected much more from such a prestigious university like USC. Overall, it was a letdown and did not live up to my expectations.
2. Sarah - 2 stars
I attended a USC football game and was not impressed with the traveler mascot. It lacked energy and enthusiasm, and I found it difficult to get excited when it appeared on the field. The costume itself looked outdated and worn out, which took away from the overall experience. USC should consider updating their mascot to something more engaging and lively to better represent the spirit and excitement of the school.
3. Mark - 1 star
The USC traveler mascot was the most boring and unenthusiastic mascot I have ever witnessed. It lacked any kind of charisma or excitement, and it seemed like the person inside the costume didn't even want to be there. The performance was lackluster and it felt like a missed opportunity to engage the crowd and create a memorable experience. I was very disappointed and I hope USC considers revamping their mascot to better represent the school's energy and passion.