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Denver Broncos fans are no strangers to the legendary players who’ve donned the orange and blue, but what about the mischievous Denver Broncos mascot who’s added an extra dose of humor and hootenanny to the field?
Since the Denver Broncos team logo features a horse, it is obvious that the mascot has to be a horse. Horses represent power, strength, freedom, agility, and fighting spirit, the most crucial things you’ll need in the NFL.
Horses have been our most loyal companion for thousands of years, so it is no surprise that we see their presence in horse racing betting games, to teams in big leagues represented by a horse mascot.
Allow us to take you on a whimsical journey as we uncover the history of the Denver Broncos mascots, a history filled with jokes, pranks, and all-around good times.
What We Will Cover
The History of Denver Broncos Mascots
Thunder I and Thunder II: The Pioneers of Mascot Mania
Since its establishment in 1960, the Denver Broncos have had two official mascots, and these two Thunderbolts have created quite a stir.
Thunder I was the team’s first mascot from 1993 until 1996, and he was succeeded by Thunder II, who has been bringing the thunder since 1997.
Huddles: Denver’s Mayor’s Curious Past
Before Miles came along, Huddles was the mascot chosen by Denver Broncos. Curiously, Huddles, who was a horse on two legs, has a curious backstory.
The reality is that the current mayor of Denver, Michael Hancock, was the man under the suit of Huddles.
Hancock, who was a senior in high school at the time, was Huddles during the 1986 season when Broncos was a finalist of the Super Bowl.
Miles the Horse: The Galloping Good Time
Miles, the Horse, was the successor to Huddle and made his first appearance in 1995. With his fun antics and crazy shenanigans, this horse entertainment added a whole new level of excitement to the games.
Nowadays, Miles is still present at most Broncos games and he is one of two official mascots for the team (the only one that is animated by a human under the suit).
Thunder III: The Successor To Thunder Legacy
The second mascot is Thunder III, the son of Thunder II. Since his father’s retirement in 2014, Thunder III is the primary attraction and on-field power.
With his high-flying acrobatics and antics, this mascot brings a new level of excitement to every game.
Thunder III is more than a mascot. He represents the Denver Broncos’ everlasting energy and dedication to their fans.
The horse reflects the enthusiasm and excitement that Denver Broncos fans have grown to know and love, from his death-defying antics to his upbeat disposition. He serves as a continual reminder that the Broncos are more than a team; they are a community.
Thunder III is currently 23 years old and it is likely that his foal becomes his successor once he retires as well. So we can expect Thunder IV soon to be in Broncos games.
The Legacy of Denver Broncos Mascots
The Denver Broncos’ mascots have been making fans laugh and smile for almost 25 years, and they have become a crucial aspect of the team.
These mascots exemplify the essence of the Broncos and are a treasured part of the team’s history and culture, whether they’re performing on the field or spreading joy in the stands.
While the Thunders are horses that represent the city’s culture and are dedicated to equestrian arts, Miles is responsible for animating the crowds and cheering the Empower Field at Mile High.
Why Mascots are Important in NFL Games
The NFL mascot is more than just a costumed character running around the sidelines; it contributes significantly to the overall fan experience and game day atmosphere.
A well-designed and implemented mascot may provide a feeling of fun and excitement to the game, resulting in a lively and memorable environment for fans of all ages.
Mascots can also function as team ambassadors, encouraging team spirit and establishing a sense of camaraderie among fans.
They also offer a unique chance for marketing and branding, assisting the club in spreading its message and connecting with supporters on a personal level. Finally, a good mascot may improve the overall fan experience and instill a sense of unity and passion in the game.
Final Thoughts
Finally, for more than a quarter-century, the Denver Broncos mascots have added entertainment and shenanigans to the games. They create wonderful memories and traditions, just like the Detroit Lions and Chicago Bears Thanksgiving Day game.
These mascots, from Miles the Horse to Thunder II, have been a vital part of the Broncos’ experience and will continue to provide fans with fun and excitement for many years.
So, the next time you’re at a football game, take a moment to thank the mascots who have been delivering the thunder and laughter since the beginning.
