Waco Marvels at Masked Rider

by William Bishnow

On February 3, 2018, a line of eager Red Raider fans stretched down the sidewalk, curious children gaping at the Masked Rider's equine companion, Fearless Champion. The Rider's first ever appearance at the Texas Tech University at Waco was an opportunity for the community to learn more about the tradition of Tech's Masked Rider.

Masked Rider Appears

Though the road between Lubbock to Waco is long, Laurie Tolboom, Texas Tech's 56th Masked Rider, says the drive is worth it. The Dublin, Texas, native's career as the Masked Rider has extended to over 200 events across the country. Her experience as Texas Tech's Masked Rider has been one as a representative, not only for the mission of the school, but of the Texas Tech family.

From game-time runs with Fearless Champion, to bowl games and beyond, Tolboom says they go anywhere they are allowed. Whether it is a stadium full of screaming fans or a few that show up at a convenient photo op, the message of the Masked Rider remains: it is all about the Red Raider family. Tolboom says she also keeps a running count of the number of "Guns Up!" signs she sees; at latest count, more than 375.

One of these essential events for Tolboom was the memorial of slain Texas Tech Police Officer, Floyd East, Jr. In the fall of 2017, Tolboom and Fearless made the trip to West Texas to honor the legacy of Officer East. Tolboom says she understood many might not be able to make it out to the memorial and knew it was important to show that our community stood with the East family during this difficult time.

No Easy Feat

Donning the Masked Rider gear is a privilege afforded only to those with great skill and diligence. A rigorous interview process by panels of more than 20 people (all at one time), along with required horse training experience, a written equestrian exam, riding practice, and driving simulation make up the beginning of the application for Masked Rider. 

Pairing all of these skills with the hundreds of appearances the rider makes for a highly rigorous schedule. The previous Masked Rider, Charlie Snider, attended more than 300 events with Fearless Champion; Tolboom says there are no signs of slowing down in the current year.

Local Legend

Matt Hines, meteorologist for KXXV located in Waco, got his start broadcasting for stations like KLBK and KAMC in Lubbock. Hines says his time at Texas Tech, "Grew me up," citing his time in various volunteer organizations with Texas Tech, most notably, the Saddle Tramps. Saddle Tramps is an all-male booster organization that supports Texas Tech men's athletic programs. During his time in Saddle Tramps, Hines travelled as far as Arizona State University and Missouri, even serving as Raider Red, Texas Tech's cowboy-like mascot.

The award winning KXXV meteorologist, and noted Texas Tech alum, made time on his Saturday to bring his two children to see the Masked Rider. Hines said when his daughter "noticed the Masked Rider was a girl, her eyes lit up." Teaching his daughter that anyone could be the Masked Rider is a chance to inspire her to try for any opportunity in front of her.

Hines continues to live out the legacy of Texas Tech by connecting with the Waco community and Alumni Association, even hosting football watch parties at his home in Waco with is wife Stephanie. He says it is exciting to see the Masked Rider come to Waco and it is a great opportunity for people to learn the traditions of Texas Tech. Hines also says it is exciting to see how much Texas Tech has grown and become a household name over the years. When asked what the next few years look like for Texas Tech across the state, Hines says, "There is nowhere to go but up."

All in the Family

When asked what is next for the legacy of the Masked Rider, Tolboom responded, "You get out of it what you put in." Tolboom said she does not know what the future will look like for the next Masked Rider, with expanding responsibilities as Texas Tech grows to multiple teaching sites across the state. However undefined the role may be, one thing is certain – finding meaning in the Masked Rider is as simple as looking at the brightness of the future of Texas Tech.

Waco-native William Bishnow is a senior Public Relations and Organizational Leadership major at Texas Tech at Waco.

The Masked Rider and Fearless Champion

The Masked Rider with Celina Brown and Allyson Huntley

Masked Rider with Texas Tech at Waco Staff

The Masked Rider in Downtown Waco