Thunder is the enthusiastic mascot of the Denver Broncos, an American football team based in Denver, Colorado. He has become an iconic figure for fans, players, and the community alike. Thunder is a live horse, specifically a purebred Arabian, and is ridden by a human rider who portrays the team's mascot during games and events. The main idea **is that Thunder is an enthusiastic mascot for the Denver Broncos**. Thunder's role as the team's mascot is to help boost morale, energize the crowd, and create an exciting atmosphere during games. He gallops across the field before each game, carrying the team's flag and leading the players onto the field.
“Thunder”, as we know him, is technically the second live equine mascot for the Denver Broncos, thus, technically he is “Thunder II”. Registered as Winter Solstyce, he is a gray purebred Arabian gelding standing 14.3 tall. The first “Thunder” was also a gray purebred Arabian (though he was a stallion by the great GG Jabask), and he made his debut in September of 1993. The addition of the equine mascot quickly gained popularity with fans, who were dazzled as he led the team on to the field and performed his signature gallop from end zone to end zone each time the team made a touchdown. In 2004, at the at of 21, “Thunder I” passed the torch to the current “Thunder”, who by all accounts is doing a marvelous job filling his predecessor’s shoes.
The addition of the equine mascot quickly gained popularity with fans, who were dazzled as he led the team on to the field and performed his signature gallop from end zone to end zone each time the team made a touchdown. The addition of the equine mascot quickly gained popularity with fans, who were dazzled as he led the team on to the field and performed his signature gallop from end zone to end zone each time the team made a touchdown.
He gallops across the field before each game, carrying the team's flag and leading the players onto the field. His presence brings a sense of pride and tradition to the Broncos organization. Thunder also participates in various community events and charity functions throughout the year.
Thunder on the Field
I am not a particularly big football fan, but you can be sure that this Super Bowl Sunday, I will be in front of the television rooting for the Denver Broncos…why? Because I’m a big fan of “Thunder”!
“Thunder”, as we know him, is technically the second live equine mascot for the Denver Broncos, thus, technically he is “Thunder II”. Registered as Winter Solstyce, he is a gray purebred Arabian gelding standing 14.3 tall. The first “Thunder” was also a gray purebred Arabian (though he was a stallion by the great GG Jabask), and he made his debut in September of 1993. The addition of the equine mascot quickly gained popularity with fans, who were dazzled as he led the team on to the field and performed his signature gallop from end zone to end zone each time the team made a touchdown. In 2004, at the at of 21, “Thunder I” passed the torch to the current “Thunder”, who by all accounts is doing a marvelous job filling his predecessor’s shoes.
Another testament to the versatility and trainability of the Arabian, “Thunder” has many duties as team mascot, including leading the team onto the field, performing after touchdowns, and occasionally after a field goal. With all of the crowd commotion and high end production value (including pyrotechnics, cheerleaders, etc.) of today’s NFL games, “Thunder” has to be as on his own game as the team is on theirs. Off the field, “Thunder” is also expected to perform graciously, including duties that range from greeting fans before the game (while his rider, Ann Judge-Wegener, signs autographs) to riding in elevators and entering hotel ballrooms for charity functions. He is also very fond of his fans, and enjoys meeting the young and old alike.
Both of the Bronco’s mascots were carefully selected for their temperament and trainability. They needed a horse that could “thunder” down the field with all of the spirit and fire associated with the idea of a “bronco”, but also could accept the high energy atmosphere, crowds, noise and other things associated with a typical football game. Trainers admit that “Thunder II”, unlike his predecessor, was slightly timid and nervous in the beginning. He shied at the numbers painted on the field, would attempt to jump every white line that he saw, and became extremely anxious around the cheerleaders. After a lot of training centered around desensitization and behavior/reward, “Thunder II” proved that he had what it takes to represent the team, and since 2004 he has been dazzling the crowds, though he still requires ground handlers to keep him calm when the crowd does “the wave”. “Thunder” resides at the Wegener’s ranch in Bennett, Colorado when he is not performing.
Normally, “Thunder” only appears at home games, but he has been granted permission to appear on February 2 nd in New Jersey for Super Bowl XLVIII, and will at the very least, be leading the team on to the field, though it is still unclear whether he will be allowed to perform all of his normal “game duties” because the site is a neutral one for both teams.
So, whether you are a die hard football fan or not, tune in and enjoy the “Thunder” at this year’s Super Bowl!
I am not a particularly big football fan, but you can be sure that this Super Bowl Sunday, I will be in front of the television rooting for the Denver Broncos…why? Because I’m a big fan of “Thunder”!
He visits local schools, hospitals, and charity fundraisers, bringing joy and excitement to people of all ages. Thunder is loved by fans of all generations, and his visits often create unforgettable memories. In addition to being the Broncos' mascot, Thunder has gained recognition on a national level. He has appeared in commercials and has been featured in numerous media outlets, making him a beloved symbol not only of the Denver Broncos but also of the sport itself. Thunder embodies the spirit of the team and represents their commitment to excellence and passion for the game. Overall, Thunder plays a vital role in the Broncos organization, as he brings joy, excitement, and a sense of unity to fans, players, and the community. With his enthusiastic presence and iconic gallop, Thunder has become an integral part of the Broncos' identity, symbolizing the team's spirit and tradition..
Reviews for "Thunder the Bronco: The Ultimate Icon of Denver Broncos Pride"
1) John - 2 stars - Thunder the enthusiastic mascot of the Denver Broncos left me feeling underwhelmed. While he certainly had a lot of energy, I found his overall performance to be lacking. His routines were repetitive and predictable, and I didn't feel like he brought any unique or original elements to the game. Additionally, his interaction with the crowd felt forced and insincere. Overall, I was disappointed with Thunder and expected more from the Denver Broncos' mascot.
2) Emily - 2 stars - Thunder the enthusiastic mascot of the Denver Broncos didn't impress me at all. His antics were more distracting than entertaining. I found his constant running around the field to be annoying, especially when it interrupted the game. Furthermore, his costume seemed outdated and unimaginative. I expected a mascot to bring a sense of excitement and fun, but Thunder fell short in that department. I would prefer to see a different mascot representing the Denver Broncos in the future.
3) Michael - 1 star - Thunder the enthusiastic mascot of the Denver Broncos was a complete letdown. His attempts to engage the crowd were awkward and forced. It seemed like he lacked the charisma and energy that a mascot should possess. I was hoping for a memorable and lively experience at the game, but Thunder's lackluster performance left me feeling unimpressed. Overall, I would say that Thunder was a forgettable mascot that did not add any value to my experience as a Denver Broncos fan.