The Budweiser Clydesdales have long been an iconic symbol of both Anheuser-Busch and American culture. Their majestic presence at Busch Stadium’s Opening Day ceremonies has become a cherished tradition, eagerly anticipated by fans each year. The 2024 Opening Day was no exception, as these magnificent horses once again captivated audiences with their grandeur and grace.
A Storied Tradition
The association between the Budweiser Clydesdales and the St. Louis Cardinals dates back to 1982, when they first trotted around the warning track during the World Series. By 1983, their appearance became a staple of the Cardinals’ Opening Day festivities, symbolizing both the arrival of a new baseball season and the enduring partnership between the team and Anheuser-Busch. This year marked the 90th anniversary of the Clydesdales, adding an extra layer of significance to their 2024 performance.
Meticulous Preparation
Preparing the Clydesdales for their grand entrance is a meticulous process that begins hours before they set hoof on the field. The team travels in style, utilizing two semi-trailers for the horses and an additional semi for the iconic red, white, and gold beer wagon and harnesses. Each hitch consists of eight horses, with two spares always on hand to ensure readiness. Handlers dedicate approximately four hours to grooming and preparing the horses, which includes bathing, brushing, and cleaning their distinctive white leg feathers with specialized purple shampoo to enhance their brightness. The horses’ manes and tails are carefully braided and tied, showcasing the attention to detail that defines their presentation.
The Grand Entrance
As the clock struck 2:30 PM on April 4, 2024, the pregame ceremonies commenced with the much-anticipated appearance of the Budweiser Clydesdales. Emerging from the wagon gate, the eight-horse hitch, adorned in gleaming harnesses, gracefully entered the field, pulling the iconic beer wagon. Seated beside the driver was Bud, the Dalmatian, a nod to the breed’s historical role in guarding the wagon and providing companionship during deliveries. The sight of the Clydesdales parading around the field evoked a sense of nostalgia and pride among the fans, many of whom captured the moment on their devices.
A Day of Celebration
The Clydesdales’ procession set the tone for a day filled with celebration and reverence for baseball traditions. Following their lap around the field, Fredbird and Team Fredbird made their grand entrance, energizing the crowd. The ceremony continued with the introduction of 13 Cardinals Hall of Famers, who were presented via a 2024 Ford Mustang convertible motorcade, bridging the past and present of the franchise. Country music artist Michael B. Whitt delivered a stirring rendition of the national anthem, culminating the pregame festivities and ushering in the start of the game.
Voices of Concern
Amidst the celebrations, the 2024 Opening Day also witnessed voices of concern regarding the treatment of the Clydesdales. Animal rights organization PETA staged a protest, flying a banner over Busch Stadium to draw attention to the practice of tail docking among the Clydesdales. PETA alleges that the horses’ tailbones are removed shortly after birth, a procedure they argue causes pain and affects the animals’ balance and ability to ward off insects. They called for a boycott of Budweiser until the practice is ceased, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding animal welfare in promotional traditions.
Conclusion
The Budweiser Clydesdales’ appearance at the 2024 Opening Day at Busch Stadium encapsulated a blend of tradition, celebration, and reflection. Their majestic procession around the field served as a reminder of the enduring bond between the St. Louis Cardinals, Anheuser-Busch, and the fans who cherish these time-honored rituals. As the Clydesdales continue to symbolize both corporate heritage and communal joy, their role in such events invites ongoing dialogue about the balance between tradition and evolving perspectives on animal welfare.
