The Bronze Boot has been part of the bragging rights between long-time rivals UW and Colorado State University for decades. However, the coveted Border War trophy has a unique history of its own.
The Bronze Boot was first used during the Border War in 1968. It was originally a real boot worn by Capt. Dan Romero, a military science professor at CSU who was deployed to Vietnam.
The boot was then bronzed and has been used as the Border War trophy ever since.
One of the traditions that accompanies the Bronze Boot is the pre-game run to the border.
Cadets from the UW and CSU ROTC programs run the boot along Highway 287 to the Wyoming-Colorado border where it is then delivered to the host stadium.
This year, the boot will be run 27 miles to War Memorial Stadium after a short ceremony at the border.
Cadets take turns running portions of the road, and a few who might be involved in the marathon are looking forward to it.
“The Bronze Boot means a great deal to both Army and Air Force ROTC members at UW,” ROTC Cadet Connor Demitz said. “It is an honor to participate in the only ROTC trophy presented in college football.”
“You’re running with other people for a common goal and the camaraderie helps,” freshman Air Force ROTC Cadet Allison Medland said. “The last part of the run into town, we even get to run with a horse.”
“It’s a huge tradition,” Associate Athletic Director for Media Relations, Tim Harkins said. “It’s very symbolic of this rivalry. It means a great deal to everyone.”
Demitz said that the trophy also represents the respect that the UW and CSU ROTC units have for each other and for veterans of both programs.
“This trophy pays homage to the veterans of the CSU and UW ROTC programs who have given the ultimate sacrifice for their country,” Demitz said. “The Boot reminds us that we are a part of a bigger picture and that there is no greater honor.”
After the game, the winning team runs to grab the Bronze Boot from the sideline.
“When you’re not in possession of it, that even adds a little more incentive to it,” Harkins said.
The rivalry between Wyoming and Colorado State is one of the longest in college football history, dating back to 1899.
The Cowboys are looking to end a losing streak and return the Bronze Boot to north of the border this Saturday.
“You never know what’s going to happen in a rivalry game. It’s always exciting, it’s always unpredictable,” Harkins said.
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