Running with Ralphie
Left: Claire Applegate (Edu’25), Right: Ben Eggen
Ìý
When one Ralphie gate closes, another one opens. Just ask two School of Education undergraduate students who have been lucky enough to join the coveted team of Ralphie Handlers— one of CU’s most cherished, recognizable traditions.
Ralphie Handler Claire Applegate (Edu’25) graduated last spring with her degree in Leadership and Community Engagement. She passed the torch to Ben Eggen, a Middle and High School Teaching major who’s just starting out with the team. Both students grew up in Colorado watching Ralphie run.
Applegate, from Centennial, attended CU Buffs games with her family. She assumed everyone in the crowd was, like her, there to watch Ralphie. As she got older, she realized some attendees were there to watch the football game, which she loves now too, of course. Eggen, who grew up in Longmont and also watched the Buffs play, likewise admired Ralphie and dreamed of trying out for the team one day.
That day is here, and Applegate and Eggen know firsthand about the intense training protocol for Ralphie Handlers. During football season, these varsity student-athletes dedicate 20-30 hours per week to not only training and practicing but also caring for the beloved mascot and escorting her to public appearances.
Here, our local Ralphie Handlers run us through what it’s like to have their childhood dreams of running with Ralphie come true.
Ìý
Q. What's the best part of being a Ralphie Handler?
Eggen: Getting to be a part of the best team in the world. The community that the team has built is one of inclusion and respect. During my time on the team, I have made lifelong memories and friends.
Q. What's one thing about Ralphie that surprised you after becoming a Ralphie Handler?
Applegate: How much personality she has. She has a unique relationship with everyone on the team and can be quite playful once she gains confidence in you joining her herd.
Q. What does Ralphie mean to you both?
Applegate: Ralphie represents ÐÔÊӽ紫ý as a whole to me. She has been part of our school's history for over 50 years, and images of her can be found all over the campus. To attend CU is to know and love Ralphie, which creates connection between students and alumni.
Eggen: Ralphie represents the spirit and tradition of CU. She brings the CU community together and embodies the pride of students, faculty and alumni. She is the beating heart and soul of the University of Colorado. Ralphie is the greatest tradition in college football history.