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Email: fryea@findlay.edu
Twitter: @Abigail_EF
Their giant hooves were probably heard from miles away as the famous Budweiser Clydesdales rode into Findlay the past week. With 10 horses and a Dalmatian in tow, it was truly a sight to see for University of Findlay students.
Clydesdales, Charlie, Fire, Jack, King, Pride, Princeton, Rascal, Rock, Sparky, and Tim all made the trip to UF’s Western Farm, for the students and community to see. You can’t forget about Clyde, either, as he is the Dalmatian that is making his rounds with the celebrity carriage horses.
Each Clydesdale weighs between 1,800 lbs. and 2,300 lbs. For reference, two of these horses weighs the same as a car.
These horses traveled far and wide to visit UF students here on our own turf. The Budweiser Clydesdales are based in St. Louis, Missouri; Fort Collins, Colorado; and Merrimack, New Hampshire. Not only do they travel to Findlay, Ohio, but they go all over the country!
This change of pace at the barn was exciting for students as Lauren Omerzo, a junior pre-vet major, got the chance to hang out with the giant friends.
“I was blown away,” said Omerzo. “I was so shocked by how large and beautiful [the Budweiser Clydesdales] were.”
It takes a lot of work and effort to keep these horses at the top of their game so everyone can enjoy them. There are certain requirements that go into which horses can become a true Budweiser Clydesdale.
“I know breeding and genetics play a huge role in which horses are chosen. They look for certain markings that will hopefully be passed down to the offspring,” explained Omerzo. Specifically, the Clydesdales must have a bay coat with a black mane and tail. They also must have four white stockings, located on the legs, and a splash of white on their face. Theses giants truly are some big animals as they must stand at 18 hands high, or six feet tall.
Students got the chance to see the famous canine companion when they stopped in to visit the barn as well.
“They were the most adorable dogs, ever,” said Omerzo. “I have never been able to see Dalmatians in my life until now — it was so cool!”
Not only do the horses get hundreds of visitors and lots of fans, but they are also treated to quality care to ensure they are healthy and happy.
“I couldn’t help but notice how neat and clean they all were,” expressed Omerzo. The Budweiser Clydesdales are treated like the celebrities they have become.
“My favorite part of this experience was actually being able to see the real horses in person and not just on the commercials. And we could see the trailers they are hauled in,” Omerzo gushed.
The Budweiser Clydesdales coming to the University of Findlay was quite the time for many students excited to get a brush with fame.
