The Denver Broncos announced that Sharon Magness-Blake and the Thunder mascot team are transitioning ownership, riding, and handling duties to new personnel.
This transition marks the end of a multi-decade era for one of the most visible traditions at Empower Field at Mile High. The mascot program remains a central part of the game-day experience for fans in Denver, Colorado.
Magness-Blake and her team have been involved with the program for 33 years [2]. The tradition of the Thunder runs began in 1993 [2], establishing a long-standing presence during home games. This tenure spans more than 30 years of service to the organization [1].
The team is passing the reins to ensure the legacy and tradition of the mascot program are preserved [1]. While the current personnel are retiring, the program is scheduled to continue in 2026 and beyond [1].
The mascot team consists of the horse's owner, rider, and handler. These roles are essential for managing the animal in the high-energy environment of an NFL stadium, a task that requires precision and experience.
The Broncos organization has not yet named the specific individuals who will take over the duties. However, the commitment to maintaining the Thunder spirit team ensures that the horse will remain a fixture of the team's identity during the upcoming season.
“The tradition of the Thunder runs began in 1993.”
The transition of the Thunder mascot program represents a shift in the operational leadership of the Broncos' game-day traditions. By replacing the owner, rider, and handler simultaneously after three decades, the organization is attempting to institutionalize a tradition that was previously tied to a specific group of individuals, ensuring the mascot's role survives the retirement of its long-term caretakers.
