On January 1, 1954, Texas Tech fans attending the Gator Bowl witnessed the evolution of a beloved tradition that Red Raider fans would embrace for decades to come. Dressed in black clothing with a long flowing cape and mounted on a solid black gelding horse, Joe Kirk Fulton caught the eyes of the nation when he stormed out onto the playing field to lead the Red Raider football team. The dramatic entry by the horse and rider electrified the crowd as well as the team, which beat Auburn 35-13. Forty-six years later, the Texas Tech Masked Rider is perhaps the most recognizable collegiate mascot in the country. The Masked Rider is a colorful symbol of school spirit and pride that carries a certain mystique. Wearing black riding clothes, mask, bolero hat, and scarlet cape and perched atop Midnight Raider, a jet black quarterhorse, the Masked Rider is one of college football's most unique mascots. He leads the team out on to the field before each home game and can be seen at other Red Raider