Broncos mascot Thunder IV, owner, rider, handler announce retirement

Thunder, the majestic Denver Broncos’ mascot, isn’t being put out to pasture. But Thunder IV, and the white horse’s owner, caretaker and rider are moving on.

The Broncos told 9NEWS that while the owner of the first four Thunders going back to 1993 and the rider since 1998 are riding off into the sunset.

The mascot Thunder will continue to gallop after every Broncos score (except safeties). The new Thunder will be team-owned and will again be a white horse.

“On behalf of our organization and all of Broncos Country, we thank Sharon Magness Blake and Ernie Blake, Ann Judge and the entire Thunder Spirit team for their extraordinary contributions to the Denver Broncos,'' Broncos owner Carrie Walton-Penner said in a statement to 9NEWS. "For more than three decades, Thunder created lasting memories for fans as an iconic part of our gameday experience and community outreach.

“We have the deepest appreciation for what Sharon, Ernie, Ann and the Thunder Spirit team have meant to the Broncos and look forward to building on their incredible legacy.”