The Budweiser Clydesdales: a living emblem of tradition, strength, and beauty. For decades, these majestic horses have captured the imagination of the public, trotting their way into parades, commercials, and the hearts of millions. What many people don’t realize, however, is the incredible efficiency and precision required to prepare and transport these animals and their iconic red beer wagon. In a feat of logistics that borders on choreography, eight Clydesdales can be unhitched, unbraided, and loaded into their custom trailers—along with their massive wagon—in just 20 minutes. Here’s how it’s done.
A Well-Oiled Machine
The Budweiser Clydesdale teams don’t just travel; they tour, appearing at events across the country. With each appearance, the team’s handlers are tasked with creating the magic that audiences have come to expect. But what happens after the cameras stop rolling, the parade ends, or the show wraps? That’s when the real work begins.
The 20-minute breakdown process is the result of careful planning, rigorous training, and unparalleled teamwork. Every handler knows their role, and every detail has been considered to ensure the safety and comfort of the horses while maintaining the speed and efficiency needed for a smooth transition.
Step 1: Unhitching the Team
As the performance concludes, the handlers begin by unhitching the horses from the wagon. Each of the eight Clydesdales wears an intricate harness made of leather and brass—a work of art in its own right. The harnesses are heavy and complex, requiring skilled hands to remove them quickly yet carefully.
Handlers work in pairs, starting at the lead horses and moving toward the wheelers (the pair closest to the wagon). The harnesses are removed systematically and set aside for cleaning and storage. Meanwhile, the horses are led to a staging area where they can rest briefly before the next steps.
Step 2: Removing the Braids
If you’ve ever seen the Budweiser Clydesdales, you’ve likely noticed their signature braided manes and tails, adorned with ribbons to match the occasion. These braids are not just for show; they are a nod to the draft horse tradition. However, they must be removed before the horses can be loaded into their trailers.
Incredibly, this process is completed in mere minutes. Each handler is assigned specific horses, working swiftly to untangle the ribbons and undo the braids without pulling or damaging the horses’ manes. Years of practice have made this step almost second nature to the team.
Step 3: Loading the Wagon
While the horses are being unbraided, another team focuses on the wagon. The red Budweiser beer wagon is not only iconic but also heavy, requiring specialized equipment for loading and securing it. A ramp is extended from the trailer, and the wagon is carefully rolled aboard. Every piece of the wagon—from its wheels to its brass accents—is meticulously secured to prevent damage during transit.
Step 4: Loading the Horses
With the wagon safely stowed, it’s time to load the horses. The Budweiser Clydesdales travel in custom trailers designed to ensure their comfort and safety. Each trailer is equipped with padded stalls, ventilation systems, and even cameras so the handlers can monitor the horses during the journey.
The loading process is a testament to the trust between the Clydesdales and their handlers. The horses, trained to remain calm and obedient, walk up the ramp one by one, guided by their handlers. Each horse has an assigned stall, and the process is smooth and efficient thanks to the horses’ familiarity with the routine.
Step 5: Final Checks
Before the trailers hit the road, the team conducts a final round of checks. Harnesses and other equipment are packed away, the horses’ stalls are double-checked for security, and the trailer’s systems are inspected to ensure a comfortable ride. Only then is the convoy ready to depart for its next destination.
Precision Through Practice
Achieving this level of efficiency requires countless hours of practice and preparation. The handlers work with the horses daily, building a bond of trust and understanding. They rehearse every aspect of the breakdown process, refining their techniques and improving their speed.
The Clydesdales themselves are carefully selected for their temperament, size, and trainability. These gentle giants are not only stunning to look at but also remarkably disciplined, making them ideal partners for such a demanding routine.
A Legacy of Excellence
The ability to unhook, unbraid, and load eight Clydesdales and a wagon in just 20 minutes is a testament to the dedication and expertise of the Budweiser Clydesdale team. It’s a process that blends tradition with modern efficiency, ensuring that these beloved horses can continue to delight audiences wherever they go.
For fans, the Clydesdales are a symbol of nostalgia and Americana. For the handlers, they are a daily reminder of the rewards that come from hard work, precision, and care. And for the horses themselves? Perhaps it’s just another day on the job—albeit a very special one.
