Clydesdales Take the Field on Opening Day 2023: A Timeless Tradition Continues
Opening Day in St. Louis is not just a day; it’s an event, a spectacle, and a cherished tradition. Every year, thousands of baseball fans gather at Busch Stadium to celebrate the return of Cardinals baseball, and one of the most anticipated moments of the day is the grand entrance of the Budweiser Clydesdales. These magnificent horses, known for their grace, strength, and iconic presence, have long been a symbol of both the team’s legacy and the deep-rooted traditions of St. Louis baseball.
A Legacy Carried Forward
The Clydesdales’ association with the St. Louis Cardinals dates back decades, adding a sense of nostalgia and grandeur to Opening Day. Introduced by Anheuser-Busch in the 1930s as a celebration of the end of Prohibition, the Clydesdales quickly became an enduring symbol of excellence and heritage. As the team’s official beer sponsor, Anheuser-Busch has seamlessly woven the presence of these majestic animals into the heart of Cardinals baseball, ensuring their continued appearance on one of the most significant days in the sports calendar.
For the fans in St. Louis, Opening Day without the Clydesdales is unimaginable. They are as much a part of the festivities as the ceremonial first pitch or the sea of red-clad fans filling the streets around the stadium. In 2023, the tradition remained as grand as ever, captivating both longtime supporters and newcomers alike.
The Procession: A Moment of Awe
As the gates of Busch Stadium opened on Opening Day 2023, anticipation filled the air. Fans, many of whom had arrived hours before the first pitch, lined the streets and concourses, eager to catch a glimpse of the beloved horses. Then, like clockwork, the famous Budweiser hitch, drawn by the majestic Clydesdales, began its ceremonial procession through the streets of downtown St. Louis before entering the stadium.
Dressed in their signature harnesses adorned with polished brass and leather, the Clydesdales marched with an elegance that never fails to impress. Their hooves pounded rhythmically against the pavement, synchronized in perfect harmony, a testament to the rigorous training and care they receive. With each step, they carried the weight of history, reminding fans of the deep connection between the team, the city, and its traditions.
As they entered the stadium, the crowd erupted in thunderous applause. The energy inside Busch Stadium was electric, with cheers echoing through the stands as the horses made their way along the warning track. The iconic red beer wagon, carrying cases of Budweiser, gleamed under the bright spring sun, completing the picturesque scene.
The Emotion Behind the Tradition
For many fans, the sight of the Clydesdales evokes deep emotions. Opening Day is more than just the start of a new baseball season; it’s a time for families to come together, reminisce about past seasons, and create new memories. The Clydesdales serve as a bridge between generations, with parents recalling their own childhood experiences of watching these magnificent creatures parade onto the field, now sharing the moment with their children.
Longtime season ticket holder Jerry Michaels, who has attended Opening Day for over 30 years, described the moment perfectly: “Seeing the Clydesdales never gets old. It’s like watching history unfold in front of you. No matter how many times you see them, it still gives you chills.”
The connection between the Cardinals and the Clydesdales runs deeper than just a promotional event. It embodies the values of tradition, excellence, and perseverance—qualities that define both the team and its loyal fan base.
Behind the Scenes: The Care and Training of the Clydesdales
While the Clydesdales may seem effortless in their performance, their preparation is anything but simple. These horses, bred for their strength and beauty, undergo extensive training to perfect their synchronized movements and maintain their pristine appearance.
Each horse in the Budweiser hitch is carefully selected based on strict criteria, including their height, color, and temperament. They must be at least 18 hands tall (about six feet at the shoulder), weigh between 1,800 and 2,300 pounds, and have a signature bay coat with white markings. Their training begins at an early age, with experienced handlers guiding them through routines that ensure they can perform flawlessly in front of massive crowds.
Before Opening Day, the horses and their handlers spend weeks rehearsing, making sure every detail—from their movements to their harness fittings—is perfect. Their meticulous care extends beyond training, with a team of veterinarians, nutritionists, and caretakers ensuring they remain in peak condition throughout the year.
A Symbol of Resilience and Hope
The presence of the Clydesdales on Opening Day 2023 was particularly significant as it marked a continued return to normalcy following the disruptions of recent years. For the fans, it was a reminder of the resilience of the sport, the city, and its traditions. Baseball has always been a source of comfort and unity, and the Clydesdales, in their dignified grace, symbolize the endurance of those values.
As the horses completed their lap around the stadium, the crowd’s applause reached a crescendo. It was a moment of pure joy, a reminder of why Opening Day in St. Louis is unlike any other. The Clydesdales had once again set the stage for another season of baseball, carrying with them the hopes and dreams of an entire city.
Looking Ahead
As the Cardinals embarked on their 2023 season, the Opening Day festivities set a powerful tone. The presence of the Clydesdales reinforced that some traditions are timeless, bringing generations of fans together in celebration of America’s pastime. While the players prepared to take the field, the Clydesdales had already delivered a message—one of strength, heritage, and unwavering dedication to excellence.
For St. Louis, Opening Day isn’t just about baseball. It’s about community, tradition, and the enduring presence of the Budweiser Clydesdales. As long as baseball thrives in St. Louis, these magnificent horses will continue to take the field, year after year, reminding everyone that some traditions are too grand to ever fade away.
