Ralphie VII: The New Live Mascot of the Colorado Buffaloes

The University of Colorado is set to introduce Ralphie VII, a one-year-old American Bison weighing 700 pounds, as the new live mascot for the Colorado Buffaloes. She will make her debut on September 20, 2025, during a sold-out game against the Wyoming Cowboys at Folsom Field. Ralphie VII is a gift from the Beauprez Family, multigenerational alumni of the university and owners of Eagle's Wing Ranch near Steamboat Springs, Colorado. This event marks the continuation of a cherished tradition that has been a staple of Colorado football for over 58 years.

Colorado announces that Ralphie VII will debut before Wyoming gameThe Sporting NewsBleacher ReportColorado To Debut New Live Buffalo Mascot, 'Ralphie VII,' Against Wyoming

The Ralphie Live Mascot Program has been a unique aspect of college sports since its inception in 1966, when the first Ralphie made her debut. Ralphie VII succeeds Ralphie VI, who retired prior to the current season due to her "indifference to running." Ralphie VI, nicknamed Ember, had shown a lack of enthusiasm during her final appearances, prompting her retirement after four years of service. She will now join Ralphie V, known as Blackout, in a companion role at the ranch.

University of Colorado Athletics

Ralphie's run is an iconic pregame tradition that symbolizes the spirit of the Buffaloes and engages fans, students, faculty, and alumni alike. Taylor Stratton, the director of the Ralphie Live Mascot Program, expressed excitement about Ralphie VII's addition, stating, "Ralphie's run is iconic and our fans take an incredible amount of pride in this tradition which transcends sports." The return of Ralphie to the field is expected to reignite enthusiasm among supporters, especially after two home games without a live mascot.

University of Colorado AthleticsThe Sporting NewsRalphie’s Reign: New Buffaloes Mascot to Debut SaturdayColorado To Debut New Live Buffalo Mascot, 'Ralphie VII,' Against Wyoming

The university has emphasized the importance of Ralphie VII in maintaining the legacy of the live mascot tradition. Stratton noted, "We’re excited to be adding a new Ralphie to the lineage of incredible buffalo that have represented the University of Colorado." The anticipation surrounding Ralphie VII's debut has generated significant excitement among fans, who are encouraged to arrive early to witness her inaugural run.

The Sporting NewsUniversity of Colorado AthleticsRalphie’s Reign: New Buffaloes Mascot to Debut SaturdayColorado To Debut New Live Buffalo Mascot, 'Ralphie VII,' Against Wyoming

Ralphie VII will officially take the field shortly before the 8:15 p.m. kickoff against Wyoming, with her handlers set to bestow a unique nickname upon her after the run, in line with tradition. Fans are eager to see how she will embody the spirit of the Buffaloes and contribute to the storied history of Ralphie mascots.

The Sporting NewsUniversity of Colorado AthleticsColorado To Debut New Live Buffalo Mascot, 'Ralphie VII,' Against WyomingRalphie’s Reign: New Buffaloes Mascot to Debut Saturday

• “Ralphie's run is iconic and our fans, students, faculty, staff, and alumni take an incredible amount of pride in this tradition which transcends sports,” — Taylor Stratton, Director of the Ralphie Live Mascot Program

University of Colorado Athletics

• “We're excited to be adding a new Ralphie to the lineage of incredible buffalo that have represented the University of Colorado and have elevated the fans' passion for our student-athletes.” — Taylor Stratton, Director of the Ralphie Live Mascot Program

University of Colorado Athletics

Ralphie VII's debut is not just a return to tradition; it symbolizes the enduring connection between the university and its community, as well as the pride that comes with being a Colorado Buffalo.

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