Texas Tech University's mascot horse is known as Fearless Champion. Fearless Champion represents the spirit and energy of the Texas Tech community and has become an iconic symbol of the university. The horse, a black American Quarter Horse, leads the team onto the football field before every home game, creating an electrifying atmosphere for fans and players alike. Fearless Champion's name reflects the fearless attitude that Texas Tech prides itself on. The horse is a powerful and majestic figure, representing the determination and courage of the university and its students. The name Fearless Champion is fitting for a mascot that embodies the spirit of Texas Tech and the Red Raider community.
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Each entry was timestamped, and the first person to submit the chosen name won a 500 gift card, while others submitting the chosen name each won a 50 gift card. Each entry was timestamped, and the first person to submit the chosen name won a 500 gift card, while others submitting the chosen name each won a 50 gift card.
The name Fearless Champion is fitting for a mascot that embodies the spirit of Texas Tech and the Red Raider community. The tradition of having a live mascot horse at Texas Tech dates back to the 1960s, when the university had its first official mascot horse named Blackie. Since then, several horses have held the position, with Fearless Champion taking up the role in 2006.
Centennial Champion to Succeed Fearless Champion as Texas Tech Mascot
Texas Tech University has revealed Centennial Champion as the official name of the Masked Rider’s new horse.
Centennial Champion, also known as Buzz, a 9-year-old quarter horse gelding from Lubbock, will take his first ride during Texas Tech football’s 2022 season opener on Saturday (Sept. 3) against Murray State.
“Centennial Champion and I are looking forward to leading our new coach, staff and football team onto the field,” said 61st Masked Rider Caroline Hobbs. “I cannot thank United Supermarkets enough for hosting the naming contest and for all the Red Raider fans for sending in names. We could not do this without y’all! We are excited to see all Red Raider Nation tomorrow!”
United Supermarkets, a long-time corporate sponsor of the Masked Rider Program, led a virtual naming contest and collected more than 10,000 submissions from across the U.S. A committee of Texas Tech stakeholders and former Masked Riders selected the name from the submissions. Each entry was timestamped, and the first person to submit the chosen name won a $500 gift card, while others submitting the chosen name each won a $50 gift card.
Centennial Champion was chosen in June to succeed Fearless Champion (also known as Woody) after an exhaustive nationwide search. He made his debut in April during the Red Raiders’ annual Spring Game at Jones AT&T Stadium and has already begun making official appearances.
“I am excited we were able to announce today the name of the Masked Rider’s new horse,” said Stephanie Rhode, director of the Spirit Program. “A spirited naming contest conducted by our primary sponsor, United Supermarkets, resulted in a remarkable 10,000 entries. And with the help of many former Masked Riders and Texas Tech staff, the most popular name consistent with the Masked Rider tradition was selected. We all believe the name Centennial Champion is a perfect reflection of our great university.”
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"No team in any bowl game ever made a more sensational entrance." - Ed Danforth, Atlanta Journal, Gator Bowl, January 1, 1954.
Fearless Champion is cared for by the Masked Rider, a student who rides the horse during football games and other events. The Masked Rider and Fearless Champion have become beloved figures among Texas Tech fans, with their presence adding a sense of excitement and tradition to each game. In addition to leading the team onto the field, Fearless Champion and the Masked Rider also participate in various parades and community events, representing Texas Tech and spreading school spirit throughout Lubbock and beyond. Overall, Fearless Champion is a cherished symbol of Texas Tech University and the Red Raider community. The powerful and spirited horse represents the fearless attitude and determination that defines the university and its students. Whether leading the team onto the field or participating in community events, Fearless Champion and the Masked Rider continue to inspire and unite the Texas Tech community..
Reviews for "The Significance of the Texas Tech Mascot Horse's Color and Breed"
1. John - 2/5 - I was really disappointed when I found out that the Texas Tech mascot horse was named "Buddy". It's such a generic and boring name for a horse, and it doesn't represent the energy and spirit of the university at all. I was expecting something more unique and memorable. Overall, I think the choice of the name is quite underwhelming.
2. Sarah - 3/5 - While I understand that naming a mascot horse can be a tricky task, I can't say that I'm thrilled with the name "Buddy" for the Texas Tech mascot. It lacks the creativity and excitement that I would expect from such a prominent university. It almost feels like a missed opportunity to showcase the school's identity and culture through a more fitting name. Nonetheless, I still appreciate the effort put into finding a name, even if it didn't meet my personal expectations.
3. Michael - 2/5 - I have to admit, I was expecting something more impressive for the Texas Tech mascot horse's name, but "Buddy" definitely fell short. It feels like a name you would give to a pet dog, not a majestic horse representing a university. I would have preferred a name that conveys strength, pride, and the rich history of Texas Tech. Unfortunately, "Buddy" just doesn't live up to those expectations.
4. Emily - 1/5 - "Buddy".. seriously? I'm not sure who came up with that name for the Texas Tech mascot horse, but it's a complete letdown. It sounds juvenile and lacks any connection to the university or its community. We should have had a chance to suggest names or vote for a more inspiring and meaningful option that truly resonates with the Texas Tech spirit. I hope they reconsider and choose a better name in the future.
5. David - 2/5 - As a Texas Tech alumnus, I was expecting the mascot horse to have a name that reflects the university's history and traditions. Unfortunately, "Buddy" is far from that. It's a generic and overused name that doesn't capture the essence of Texas Tech. I believe a more appropriate and unique name would have been a better choice to represent our school with pride and honor.