Tyler Bridge and Kari Rodgers have served their school anonymously as they manned Texas Tech mascot Raider Red's costume. On Sunday the pair was unmasked as their role in the Texas Tech tradition was honored. As part of the ceremony Bridge and Rodgers passed Raider Red's guns to the incoming mascots, whose identities will now remain anonymous.
Bridge performed as Raider Red at football and basketball games for three years and he might have taken it a bit too seriously.
"I've had the privilege of not growing into the costume but growing with the character," Bridge said.
It should surprise no one that Bridge also played the lead role of Danny Zuko in the Texas Tech School of Music's rendition of "Grease."
Interestingly, the Raider Red tradition used to be limited to members of a Texas Tech spirit organization known as the, um ... Saddle Tramps. Really? Is it any wonder Mike Leach fits in so well in Lubbock?
With the Saddle Tramps and the "Passing of the Guns" it's great to see that school spirit is alive and bizarre at Texas Tech. And don't even get me started about the Bell Ringer. Just watch.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
6-08-2007 @ 12:58AM
Garro30 said...
Saddle Tramps is a spirit organization designed to be a support structure for Texas Tech and athletic organizations. The term "Saddle Tramp" was originated from it's inception and by definition is a passerby known for his hard work, determination, and a job well done. So instead of keeping your mind in the gutter about the use of the word "tramp" perhaps you could study the language of the past and determine it's roots. The only thing "bizarre" around here is your article!!
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6-08-2007 @ 9:57AM
shines said...
Seriously, if this writer thinks Texas Tech traditions are bizarre he really needs to make a quick trip to College Station to see how the Aggies worship some mangy mutt and how the Corp grabs and squeezes their manhood. Now, that is bizarre!
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