It’s a crisp spring day in St. Louis, and the excitement is palpable. The Cardinals’ home opener at Busch Stadium is more than just a baseball game; it’s a citywide celebration. Among the most iconic traditions that mark this special day is the appearance of the Budweiser Clydesdales, a cherished symbol of pride, heritage, and grandeur. Today, we’re going behind the scenes with the majestic team before they make their triumphant entrance onto the field.
Nestled in their custom-designed trailers just outside the stadium, the Clydesdales are already the center of attention. Fans gather around, hoping to catch a glimpse of the colossal horses as they prepare for their moment in the spotlight. Each horse stands an impressive six feet tall at the shoulder and weighs over 2,000 pounds, their massive hooves encased in polished horseshoes the size of dinner plates.
The Budweiser Clydesdales travel as an elite team, with eight horses selected for each performance from a larger roster. Today’s lineup has been meticulously prepared, with every detail attended to. Their grooming process is nothing short of regal. Team handlers, dressed in crisp uniforms, brush the horses’ chestnut coats until they shine like satin. The distinctive white “feathering” around their legs is shampooed and fluffed to perfection, while their flowing manes are braided with red and white ribbons, a nod to Budweiser’s signature colors.
The handlers’ connection with the Clydesdales is a testament to patience and care. Each horse’s temperament is well-known, and the team works seamlessly to ensure the animals remain calm despite the bustle of the crowd. “They’re like athletes,” says one handler. “They know when it’s game day, and they rise to the occasion.”
The preparation extends beyond the horses themselves. The iconic red beer wagon, originally built in the early 1900s, has been polished to a mirror finish. It’s loaded with wooden barrels that harken back to Budweiser’s brewing heritage. The team of eight Clydesdales is hitched to the wagon with handcrafted leather harnesses, each adorned with intricate brass fittings. The process of hitching the team takes over an hour, requiring precision and teamwork.
As the pregame festivities begin, the Clydesdales make their way into Busch Stadium to the roar of the crowd. The rhythmic clopping of their hooves echoes through the stands, and the sight of these gentle giants pulling the gleaming wagon is enough to bring goosebumps to any Cardinals fan. Their entrance is a tradition that has spanned generations, symbolizing the enduring bond between Budweiser, baseball, and the city of St. Louis.
For the Clydesdales and their handlers, the moment is fleeting but unforgettable. “There’s nothing like it,” one handler reflects as the team exits the field to a standing ovation. Behind the scenes, the preparations may be meticulous and demanding, but the joy and awe they bring to fans make it all worthwhile.
The Budweiser Clydesdales aren’t just a part of the Cardinals’ opening day—they’re a part of St. Louis itself, embodying a tradition that continues to captivate and inspire with each thunderous stride.
