A New Generation of Budweiser Clydesdales: 15 Foals Welcomed at Missouri Farm
At the rolling pastures of Warm Springs Ranch in Boonville, Missouri, a new generation of Budweiser Clydesdales is taking its first steps. This year, 15 foals have been born at the world-renowned breeding facility, bringing excitement and anticipation for the future of these iconic horses. Each year, Warm Springs Ranch serves as the birthplace of the next wave of Clydesdales that will go on to represent the Budweiser brand, whether pulling the famous red beer wagon in parades or starring in Super Bowl commercials.
These 15 foals, born over the past several months, are already capturing the hearts of caretakers and visitors alike. As they frolic in the fields and bond with their mothers, they embody the strength, grace, and beauty that have made the Budweiser Clydesdales a symbol of tradition and excellence.
The Arrival of the Foals
The birth of a Budweiser Clydesdale foal is a momentous occasion. At Warm Springs Ranch, each foal is carefully monitored from the moment of birth, ensuring they receive the best care possible. Clydesdale pregnancies last around 11 months, and once born, the foals typically weigh between 110 and 180 pounds. Despite their size, these newborns are quick to stand on their wobbly legs and begin nursing within a few hours of birth.
The 15 foals born this year represent the careful breeding and heritage of the Budweiser Clydesdales, a tradition that dates back to 1933 when Anheuser-Busch first introduced the horses as a celebratory gift marking the end of Prohibition. Since then, the Clydesdales have become synonymous with the brand, appearing at major events, festivals, and even presidential inaugurations.
A Look Into Their Future
These young Clydesdales will spend their first few months at Warm Springs Ranch, where they will learn to socialize and develop under the watchful eyes of expert handlers. During this time, they will grow rapidly, gaining strength and confidence before transitioning to Grant’s Farm in St. Louis, another Anheuser-Busch-owned facility where they continue their development.
Not every foal will make it onto the Budweiser hitch team, as there are strict requirements for those selected. To join the elite group that pulls the Budweiser wagon, a Clydesdale must meet specific criteria, including a bay coat, four white stockings, a white blaze on its face, and a black mane and tail. The selection process is rigorous, ensuring only the finest Clydesdales carry on the tradition.
Warm Springs Ranch: The Heart of the Budweiser Clydesdale Legacy
Warm Springs Ranch, established in 2008, serves as the primary breeding and training facility for the Budweiser Clydesdales. Spanning over 300 acres, the ranch offers state-of-the-art facilities, including spacious stalls, foaling barns, and vast fields where the horses can roam freely.
Visitors to the ranch have the opportunity to witness these magnificent animals up close, learning about their history, training, and daily care. Guided tours allow guests to see the foals and their mothers, providing an intimate glimpse into the early stages of a Budweiser Clydesdale’s life.
A Continuing Tradition
As the 15 foals grow, they will carry forward the legacy of the Budweiser Clydesdales, representing strength, tradition, and a deep-rooted connection to Anheuser-Busch’s history. Whether they go on to join the famous hitch team, participate in special events, or become ambassadors for the breed, each of these foals plays a vital role in preserving the iconic status of the Budweiser Clydesdales.
For now, they are simply enjoying their first months of life—galloping in open pastures, nuzzling their mothers, and charming everyone who visits Warm Springs Ranch. The arrival of these 15 foals marks another chapter in the long and cherished history of the Budweiser Clydesdales, ensuring that their legacy will endure for generations to come.
