Broncos welcome new mascot Thunder V
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Thunder V and rider Gretchen Flynn gallop across the field on Sunday at Empower Field at Mile High. Photo: Justin Edmonds/Getty Images
A familiar face at Empower Field at Mile High rode off into retirement Sunday — just as his successor galloped in.
Driving the news: Thunder V made his debut during Denver's home opener with a new team of handlers, carrying one of Denver's most enduring sports traditions into its next generation.
- Thunder IV, the Broncos' beloved 19-year-old white Arabian mascot, took his final run across the field after five seasons with the team.
- The changing of the guard came with a win: The Broncos beat the Jacksonville Jaguars 20-13.
Why it matters: Few sights are as synonymous with Broncos game days as Thunder racing across the field after a touchdown in a tradition dating back more than three decades.
Flashback: The first Thunder debuted in 1993.
- Since then, the horses have appeared at Super Bowls and championship parades while becoming local fixtures.
What they're saying: "Sometimes, the players go in and out of favor," longtime rider Ann Judge told CBS Colorado last year.
- "Thunder never goes out of favor."
What's next: You can spot Thunder V at Empower Field this Sunday when the Broncos host the Los Angeles Rams for Sunday Night Football.
- As for Thunder IV? Greener pastures await.