“Neigh!” Imagine that’s the sound Bucky, the Denver Broncos’ legendary horse statue, would make if he could talk. Here we are admiring the Football Sculpture. It stands as a tribute to the city’s vibrant sports culture and artistic spirit.
This isn’t just any sculpture. The Football Sculpture embodies the energy of Denver and its beloved Broncos. Local artists infuse their unique styles into pieces that capture the essence of Colorado, Denver, and of course, Broncos football.
Let’s talk about Bucky. He’s more than just a statue. He’s a symbol of the Broncos. For decades, Bucky stood proudly atop Empower Field at Mile High’s scoreboard. But in early 2023 Bucky was temporarily removed for the scoreboard’s renovation. It was only the second time in his history that he’d been detached.
During this time, Bucky got a well-deserved makeover. Hidden inside his hooves were old newspapers from 1974. They were placed there by Jim and Mildred Rorie, Bucky’s creators.
The Rories were the masterminds behind Fiberglass Menagerie. In 1974, they were commissioned to create a unique design element for the stadium’s scoreboard. Since they already had a mold from a previous project for Roy Rogers’ horse Trigger, they reused it with Rogers’ permission.
The finished Bucky weighed 1,600 pounds and stood 27 feet tall. Jim Rorie personally delivered the statue to Mile High Stadium. Sadly, he passed away just two years later. He never saw Bucky become a famous landmark.
Interestingly, Bucky’s name was once a subject of debate. A radio contest in 1975 sought to name the horse. The winning name was actually “Bucko,” but over time, it evolved into “Bucky”.
When Bucky was removed for renovations, it was a meticulous process. He was carefully detached and transported to BSC Signs for restoration.
BSC Signs owner Joe Landin described the extensive work. It included structural integrity tests, fiberglass reinforcement, and multiple layers of coating. The result was a “brand new” Bucky, ready to last for decades.
In the summer of 2023, Bucky returned to Empower Field at Mile High. With the renovated scoreboard, he now stands 161 feet above the field. Joe Landin saw Bucky’s return as a symbol of new beginnings.
So, as you stand here in front of the Football Sculpture, remember Bucky. Remember the art. Remember the team spirit of Denver. It all combines to embody the unique culture of this city.