MIAMI, Dec. 31 (UPI) — Florida State University officials have confirmed that Renegade, the school’s live-horse, was unharmed when he took a tumble before the Orange Bowl.
The Appaloosa fell during the pregame ceremony before Florida State’s 33-32 win against Michigan at Hard Rock Stadium. Osceola, the school’s Indian warrior, was launched off into the turf during the fall.
The accident happened as the Seminoles were running onto the field. Renegade rand down the field, before getting spooked and backing up, uncontrollably.
Osceola still managed to plant his flaming spear before getting back on the horse and riding out of public eye. The school updated fans and well-wishers of Renegade’s status during Friday’s contest.
“We can confirm Renegade was not injured before the game,” the FSU Football Twitter account said. “Thank you for your concern and kind words!”
Florida State does not regard the horse as a mascot, according to its website.
“FSU does not have a mascot — we have a symbol that we respect and prize,” FSU.edu says. “The Seminole people have suffered many hardships and injustices, but they have remained brave, dignified and proud. They are the unconquered. These traits serve as an inspiration to all of our students, including our athletes, as well as our alumni, faculty and staff.”
“By calling themselves Seminoles, members of the FSU community are engaging in a tradition of tribute for a people whose indomitable spirit is one that is deserving of honor.”
Bill Durham, a 1965 FSU graduate, created the idea for Renegade’s involvement in Seminoles home football games. Former Seminoles coach Bobby Bowden was the first coach to support the idea of someone riding the horse to midfield before planting the flaming spear in the ground.
“Durham sought and obtained the approval of the Seminole Tribe of Florida for the portrayal of Osceola and during the opening game of 1978 against Oklahoma State, the legend of Osceola and Renegade began,” Seminoles.com says. “Since that time Osceola, in authentic regalia designed by the ladies of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, and Renegade have opened every home game with the traditional planting of the spear, appeared in many major bowl games, and performed on national television on numerous occasions. Bill Durham and his family supply the beautiful Appaloosa horses and, with the help of the Renegade Team volunteers, continue to bring this spectacular tradition to those who love Florida State University.”
Drake Anderson currently serves as Osceola on Renegade V.
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