Bevo XIV

The story of the life of the University of Texas Mascot from 2004 to 2015, and the path after

University of Texas mascot Bevo XIV, passed away in 2015 after being diagnosed with bovine leukemia virus.

Bevo XIV had been resting at his ranch, where he died in the company of his best Longhorn friend, Spike, and John T. and Betty Baker, the owners of Sunrise Steers at Sunrise Ranch in Liberty Hills Texas. The Bakers have been home to the University of Texas Longhorn Mascots since 1988.

"Bevo XIV was so much more than a traditional mascot -- he was so big and strong, but he had such a sweet personality and a gentle soul," said Ricky Brennes, executive director of the Silver Spurs and Bevo XIV's regular traveling partner. "He loved the attention that came with being Bevo but was very cool, calm and smart. Like a dog, he would come when called by name, show up to the house looking for treats, and even roll over on his side so Mrs. Baker could rub his belly. He did so much for his university and community. His last few days provided great memories, but we miss him already."

Bevo XIV started his reign as mascot for the University of Texas at 2 years old in 2004. Bevo XIV reigned supreme in the middle Mack Brown years, over seeing 6 consecutive double digit winning seasons. Bevo XIV was a part of back-to-back Rose Bowl victories, including the January 2006 win that resulted in the most recent BCS National Championship for the Longhorns. In addition to his prominent position on the sidelines at Texas Football games, Bevo XIV made multiple appearances at special events, including the second inauguration of President George W. Bush. including the National Championship.

Bevo XIV's waning years were not as fun. With the retirement of Brown and the arrival of Charlie Strong, Bevo XIV's last season was especially painful, marked by a Texas Bowl loss in Houston to long time former Southwest Conference Foe, the University of Arkansas Razorbacks, 31-7.

After his death in 2015, the Bakers donated Bevo XIV's remains to further the study of bovine leukemia and preparing students at the University of Texas for Veterinary School. Bevo XIV was to remain at the University of Texas for the pre-Vet Program and not transferred to Texas A&M's School of Veterinary Medicine.

in 2022, Bevo's skeletal remains were donated to the Museum of Osteology in Oklahoma City and put on display for educational purposes. In 2024, Tuskers Tavern owners Todd Martin and Zack Wakefield were able to purchase Bevo XIV's head to display in its current resting place in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

Just the way he belongs...