UAB’s ’69 Chevy K5 Blazer is the Coolest Mascot Ever

By S.J. Bryan - October 15, 2019

University of Alabama at Birmingham is too cool for school with their recently revealed classic Blazer.

When it comes to school pride, the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) has shown everyone how cool being true to your school can look. Some schools might they roll out a new mascot for games. But not UAB, they chose a 1969 Chevrolet K5 Blazer to represent the college at events. As it turns out, the two institutions have a lot in common.

The university recently debuted the stunningly restored K5 Blazer at a football game against South Alabama. In its original green and white, the classic rig was already wearing the school colors, making it a perfect fit.

“When we learned that Chevy’s Blazer model was also celebrating 50 years in 2019 and an original green-and-white one was available, we started to think of all the possibilities,” said Allen Bolton, Senior Vice President for UAB Finance and Administration. “Through the UAB Education Foundation, we were able to make this investment in new and existing traditions of which the Blazer will be part.”

The Blazer will be kept at the school and make appearances not only at games, but at a variety of college and community events on and off campus.

The restoration was done meticulously. Down to the gauges on the dash, every detail of the K5 Blazer is period-correct and perfect. It has the style and looks to impress or intimidate, paired with the durability to tackle anything.

Upkeep for the classic Blazer will be done by Birmingham’s Edwards Chevrolet. Additionally, Edwards Chevrolet will waive all automotive costs as part of the university’s “Forging the Future” initiative, which fosters engagement with the community.

“We’ve always been thankful for the Edwardses’ support of the UAB mission, and we’re excited to partner with their business on the upkeep of our 1969 Chevy Blazer,” said UAB Vice President for Advancement Tom Brannan. “With Edwards Chevrolet’s help, we hope to keep this UAB Blazer running for another 50 years and beyond.”

Seeing a pristine vintage K5 Blazer on the UAB campus or the football field is sure to make an impression. You can keep your goofy mascots, we’ll be over here drooling at the classic bow tie rig.

Check out more of the Blazer in a fun video released by UAB, below.