Indiana State University Athletics

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. – The world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales, the symbol of quality and tradition for Anheuser-Busch since 1933, are heading to the Wabash Valley with an appearance at Indiana State's Memorial Stadium on Thursday, Aug. 16.
 
The eight-hose hitch will be harness and hitched to the famous red beer wagon in front of the historic arch at Memorial Stadium on Thursday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Fans can get their photos with the "Gentle Giants," as they are often referred to, during that time while also meeting several Indiana State student-athletes.
 
The Clydesdales' appearance in Terre Haute is one of hundreds made annually by the traveling hitches. Canadians of Scottish descent brought the first Clydesdales to America in the mid-1800's. Today, the giant draft horses are used primarily for breeding and show.
 
Horses chosen for the Budweiser Clydesdale hitch must be at least three years of age, stand approximately 18 hands – or six feet – at the shoulder, weigh an average of 2,000 pounds, must be bay in color, have four white legs, and a blaze of white on the face and black mane and tail.  A gentle temperament is very important as hitch horses meet millions of people each year.
 
A single Clydesdale hitch horse will consume as much as 20-25 quarts of feed, 40-50 pounds of hay and 30 gallons of water per day.
 
Each hitch travels with a Dalmatian.  In the early days of brewing, Dalmatians were bred and trained to protect the horses and guard the wagon when the driver went inside to make deliveries.
 
Indiana State's season beings on Aug. 30 when the Sycamores host Quincy at 7 p.m. For more information on tickets or group sales, contact Senior Assistant Athletics Director John Sherman at 812-237-3047. Fans can also visit the Hulman Center Ticket Office during normal business hours or call 800-745-3000, or visit TicketMaster.com.
 
Renewal packages have already been sent via U.S. Mail to all football season ticket holders from last season. Ticket information and the ability to purchase season tickets as well as renewing Varsity Club memberships can be found online at GoSycamores.com under the Support tab.
 
For the latest information on the Sycamore Football team, make sure to check out GoSycamores.com. You can also find the team on social media including Facebook and Twitter.