Colorado University Athletics
2019-20 Ralphie Roster
Garrett Dunn
- Class:
- Junior
- Hometown:
- Parker, Colo.
- High School:
- Ponderosa
- Major:
- Psychology
WHAT SPARKED YOUR INTEREST IN THE RALPHIE PROGRAM?
I first saw Ralphie run at the stock show when I was twelve. It was the first time I had seen a Buffalo and I became very interested in the University of Colorado after that. Once I transferred here and went to my first football game, I became hooked. I loved how much energy erupts out of the stadium as the announcer says, “Here comes Ralphieeeee.” I wanted to be apart of that special moment before every game.
WHAT DOES RALPHIE MEAN TO YOU?
To me Ralphie represents tradition, community, strength, and pride. She is the face of the university and sets the standard for live mascots.
WHAT'S THE HARDEST PART OF BEING A RALPHIE HANDLER?
The hardest part about being a handler, as it is with most sports, is the time commitment. The workouts, practice runs, and ranch days can take up a lot of time throughout the week, but it never feels like work. I have always found myself excited to dedicate the time and effort for such an amazing animal and program!
WHAT'S THE BEST PART OF BEING A RALPHIE HANDLER?
The best part of being a Ralphie handler is the community you become a part of. We are all close friends who really enjoy spending time with each other, the camaraderie on the team is something special. We all love what we do and push each other to be better. Of course, getting to form a relationship with the best mascot in college sports is pretty cool too.
WHAT'S ONE THING THAT SURPRISES PEOPLE THE MOST WHEN THEY ASK YOU ABOUT BEING A RALPHIE HANDLER?
People are most surprised with the amount of running and lifting we do. In order to keep up with Ralphie you have to be in excellent shape. She is strong and deceivingly fast, and we must be able to not only keep up but guide and slow her down to have a successful run which is easier said than done.
WHAT'S ONE THING ABOUT RALPHIE THAT SURPRISED YOU THE MOST AFTER BECOMING A RALPHIE HANDLER?
I was most surprised with how smart Ralphie is! She knows the handlers and coaches individually and its awesome to watch her personality open up to you as she becomes more comfortable with you.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES?
I like spending my time outdoors, whether its hiking, golfing, skiing/snowboarding, tubing, or just playing sports. However, you won’t have to twist my arm for a lazy day watching movies.
I first saw Ralphie run at the stock show when I was twelve. It was the first time I had seen a Buffalo and I became very interested in the University of Colorado after that. Once I transferred here and went to my first football game, I became hooked. I loved how much energy erupts out of the stadium as the announcer says, “Here comes Ralphieeeee.” I wanted to be apart of that special moment before every game.
WHAT DOES RALPHIE MEAN TO YOU?
To me Ralphie represents tradition, community, strength, and pride. She is the face of the university and sets the standard for live mascots.
WHAT'S THE HARDEST PART OF BEING A RALPHIE HANDLER?
The hardest part about being a handler, as it is with most sports, is the time commitment. The workouts, practice runs, and ranch days can take up a lot of time throughout the week, but it never feels like work. I have always found myself excited to dedicate the time and effort for such an amazing animal and program!
WHAT'S THE BEST PART OF BEING A RALPHIE HANDLER?
The best part of being a Ralphie handler is the community you become a part of. We are all close friends who really enjoy spending time with each other, the camaraderie on the team is something special. We all love what we do and push each other to be better. Of course, getting to form a relationship with the best mascot in college sports is pretty cool too.
WHAT'S ONE THING THAT SURPRISES PEOPLE THE MOST WHEN THEY ASK YOU ABOUT BEING A RALPHIE HANDLER?
People are most surprised with the amount of running and lifting we do. In order to keep up with Ralphie you have to be in excellent shape. She is strong and deceivingly fast, and we must be able to not only keep up but guide and slow her down to have a successful run which is easier said than done.
WHAT'S ONE THING ABOUT RALPHIE THAT SURPRISED YOU THE MOST AFTER BECOMING A RALPHIE HANDLER?
I was most surprised with how smart Ralphie is! She knows the handlers and coaches individually and its awesome to watch her personality open up to you as she becomes more comfortable with you.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES?
I like spending my time outdoors, whether its hiking, golfing, skiing/snowboarding, tubing, or just playing sports. However, you won’t have to twist my arm for a lazy day watching movies.
Welcoming Ralphie VII | The Story of Adding a New Buffalo to the Herd
Thursday, September 25
Introducing Ralphie VII
Friday, September 19
Ralphie makes her 2024 debut at the CU Freshman Welcome
Saturday, August 24
Ralphie Handlers and the Parkers
Sunday, August 18