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Above the roar of the crowd and yell of the football teams, another noise could be heard. The sound of hoof beats pounding across the stadium, leading the Denver Broncos as they charged onto the field. Thunder, the Denver Broncos mascot is a purebred Arabian horse that not only serves as a mascot, but an ambassador for the Arabian breed.
Super Bowl 50 showcased the Denver Broncos facing off with the Carolina Panthers on February 7, 2016, at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Thunder made the grueling 20 hour drive in his personal truck and trailer. He crossed mountains, plains and even went through a snow storm. Through it all though, Thunder prevailed and helped bring home a victory for the Denver Broncos.
Thunder and his rider and trainer, Ann Judge, led the team when they came rushing out of the Super Bowl tunnel. Plus, after each touchdown, Thunder and Ann were seen cantering from one end zone to the other in celebration of the score. They are present at each home game throughout the regular season. The duo has been through many games and events together, and made an eye-catching pair this past Sunday.
"He is my friend and partner," says Judge. "And he does all these spectacular things and allows people to fall in love with Arabian horses. Oh my gosh, am I the luckiest girl in the world or what?"
The first Thunder served as the Broncos' mascot for 11 years and made his first debut on September 12, 1993. There are currently two Arabian horses being used for Bronco games and events. Both are registered through the Arabian Horse Association and owned by Sharon Magness of Magness Arabians. Thunder II's registered name is Winter Solstyce and Thunder III's registered name is Me N Myshadow.
Thunder will make an appearance at the victory parade on Tuesday, February 9, beginning at Coors Field in Denver and will continue to the City and County Building for a large celebratory rally.
Thank you to Ann Judge, the Magnesses and 'Thunder' for all you do for our breed. Thank you for showing the world just how amazing Arabian horses really are!
AHA
is a major equine association serving 85,600 Arabian, Half-Arabian and Anglo-Arabian horse owners across North America. AHA registers and maintains a database of more than one million Arabian, Half-Arabian and Anglo-Arabian horses and administers approximately $2 million in annual prize money. AHA produces championship events, recognizes over 400 Arabian horse shows and distance rides and provides activities, education, and programs that promote breeding and ownership.
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