Texas Tech University’s Masked Rider program has a new equine member: Buzz, a 9-year-old quarter horse gelding from Lubbock. Buzz takes over the reins from Fearless Champion (also known as Woody), the beloved black steed who retired in November after a decade of service. Fearless Champion made his final run during the Texas Tech vs. Oklahoma State University football game.
Key Facts
- Buzz is a 9-year-old quarter horse gelding from Lubbock.
- Buzz replaced Fearless Champion (also known as Woody), the previous horse who recently retired after ten years of service.
- Fearless Champion made his final run during the Texas Tech vs. Oklahoma State University football game in November.
- Buzz has a willing and calm demeanor, and he is a trusting horse by nature.
- Buzz made his Texas Tech debut in April during the Red Raiders’ annual Spring Game scrimmage at Jones AT&T Stadium.
- The new Masked Rider, Caroline Hobbs, has begun to acclimate Buzz to his new home and will begin making appearances this month.
- United Supermarkets, a long-time corporate sponsor of the Masked Rider Program, hosted a naming contest for Buzz.
Buzz was selected for his calm demeanor and trusting nature. He made his Texas Tech debut in April at the Red Raiders’ annual Spring Game scrimmage at Jones AT&T Stadium. The new Masked Rider, Caroline Hobbs, is working with Buzz to acclimate him to his new role, and he will begin making appearances this month.
United Supermarkets, a long-time corporate sponsor of the Masked Rider Program, hosted a naming contest for Buzz. The winning name was submitted by a contestant who will receive a $500 gift card to United Supermarkets.
Buzz is the latest in a long line of Texas Tech mascots that have captured the hearts of fans. The Masked Rider tradition began in 1936 when a student dressed in a scarlet satin cape and rode a borrowed horse onto the football field. The tradition was revived in 1954 when Joe Kirk Fulton rode a horse named Blackie in the Gator Bowl. Since then, the Masked Rider has become one of the most iconic mascots in college football.
Buzz’s Predecessor: Fearless Champion
Fearless Champion, also known as Woody, served as the Masked Rider’s mount from 2012 to 2022. He was the longest-serving horse in school history, retiring after ten years of service. Fearless Champion was a crowd favorite, known for his spirited personality and his love of interacting with fans. He made his final run during the Texas Tech vs. Oklahoma State University football game in November, where he was given a standing ovation by the crowd.
The Masked Rider Tradition
The Masked Rider is the primary mascot of Texas Tech University. It is the oldest of the university’s mascots still in existence today. The tradition began in 1936 when a student dressed in a scarlet satin cape and rode a borrowed horse onto the football field. The tradition was revived in 1954 when Joe Kirk Fulton rode a horse named Blackie in the Gator Bowl. Since then, the Masked Rider has become one of the most iconic mascots in college football.
The Masked Rider is adorned from head to toe in black, including a black gaucho hat and a black mask. The only other color present is the scarlet rider’s cape. The current horse is also black, a tradition for the last 40 years, although horses prior to the 1970s were occasionally other colors.
Students must pass a rigorous interview and testing process to be selected for this honor by the Masked Rider Advisory Committee. The Masked Rider is available for public appearances for no fee, though a donation is encouraged.
FAQs
What is the name of Texas Tech’s horse?
Buzz
What breed is Buzz?
Quarter horse
How old is Buzz?
9 years old
Where is Buzz from?
Lubbock, Texas
When did Buzz make his Texas Tech debut?
April 2023
Who is the new Masked Rider?
Caroline Hobbs
What is the Masked Rider tradition?
The Masked Rider is a Texas Tech tradition that began in 1936. A student dressed in a scarlet satin cape and riding a horse leads the football team onto the field. The tradition was revived in 1954 and has continued ever since.
What is the Masked Rider’s significance?
The Masked Rider is one of the most iconic mascots in college football. It is a symbol of Texas Tech spirit and tradition.