Throwback Thursday – Big Red Turns 40

One of Bowling Green and Western Kentucky University’s favorite characters is celebrating a huge birthday this month. Created in 1979 and making its debut at a WKU basketball game, the beloved Big Red mascot is officially “over the hill,” as it were. 

A WKU student from Cincinnati is credited with the concept. Ralph Carey, an alum from the class of 1980, brought the character to life when the university was seeking ideas for a new mascot to go along with the already-famous red towel. According to a College Heights Herald article, Carey had a mascot meeting with the university’s future president, Gary Ransdell, when he was still working in the alumni relations office. 

The original concept was more of a bear in a sweatshirt with a “W” in its center, but that was quickly scrapped. The mascot committee agreed to move forward with a new idea—a red, fuzzy blob.

Ralph Carey was not only the creator, but he also wore the suit for its first few years. The initial suit animated the character for just $300 dollars. The suit was made from fake fur, plastic tubing and aluminum framing, and it took several years to get Big Red’s full functionality and mobility correct.

Big Red is known for belly shaking, showing emotion, and sometimes even swallowing people’s heads. The mascot has been featured worldwide on “Ellen,” “Deal or No Deal,” “ESPN’s Sportscenter,” and more. Plus Big Red has won numerous titles for being in the final four of mascots, winning mascot battles, and reaching international fame.

Here’s to you, Big Red.