The Canterbury Crusaders have retired their mascot knights and horses after 30 years due to safety concerns related to their move to a new stadium in Christchurch. This beloved tradition has been a fan favorite since the team's inception in 1996.
The Crusaders' team of six horses and knights have fired up the home fans for 30 years (Marty MELVILLE)
(Marty MELVILLE/AFP/AFP)
The Canterbury Crusaders said Tuesday that their cavalry of mascot knights and horses, beloved by spectators, had been retired after 30 years because of next week's move to their new stadium in Christchurch.
The Crusaders' team of six horses and knights have fired up the home fans ahead of kick-off since the Super Rugby side's inception in 1996.
But they will not be part of the home spectator experience for safety reasons when the Crusaders play the NSW Waratahs in the inaugural match at the 30,000-seat One New Zealand Stadium next Friday.
"This is a decision that really hurts because the horses have been part of who we areĀ from the very beginning," said Crusaders chief executive Colin Mansbridge.
"We know how much they mean to our fans.
"That feeling of watching them run out in front of a packed crowd, while 'Conquest of Paradise' plays,Ā is a feeling I will never forget."
The new stadium has been built to replace the Crusaders' original home of Lancaster Park, which was left in ruins by the 2011 Christchurch earthquake that killed 185 people.
The most successful side in Super Rugby history, with 13 championships, have had a temporary home since the earthquake at the city's Rugby League Park.
The club had considered turf protection measures and specialised floor rugs to accommodate the horses in the new state-of-the-art indoor arena.
"Despite these efforts, the constraints of the new stadium meant weĀ couldn'tĀ ensure the safety of the horses and everyone in the venue," the Crusaders said.
Mark Donald, who leads the riding group, said the decision was devastating.
"We have been through everything with this team," he said.
"TheĀ CrusadersĀ mean everything to us.
"WeĀ aren'tĀ just guys who ride horses around a field, we are an importantĀ part of thisĀ club,Ā and this is what hurts the most."
The horses made their final appearance on April 3, ahead of the 69-26 home victory over Fijian Drua.
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The Crusaders retired their horses and knights due to safety concerns associated with their upcoming move to a new stadium.
The Crusaders used horses and knights as mascots for 30 years, since the team's inception in 1996.
The Crusaders are moving to a new stadium located in Christchurch.
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