Uga VI’s owner trumps rumors of retirement

JULIA NORMAN

Uga VI will not be ending his career as the University mascot. Although many of the past bulldogs have retired at the age of 10, owner Sonny Seiler stated Uga VI is in good health.

Uga fanatics can breathe a little bit easier now: the University’s beloved mascot will not be retiring any time soon.

After reports surfaced last week that Uga VI would be ending his career as the University mascot, the Bulldog nation was abuzz in speculation.

Although many of the past bulldogs have retired at the age of 10, owner Sonny Seiler stated Uga VI is in good health and will continue to perform his duties as the mascot for Georgia.

“The dog is in excellent health, and we have every reason to believe he will not retire,” Seiler said.

Last week the Atlanta Journal-Constitution ran an article with the headline stating Uga VI would retire, though the story stated the opposite.

Seiler said he talked to AJC reporter Chip Towers and a correction was made since that was “absolutely wrong.” The AJC apologized for the error.

Seiler added that Uga VI, who was named “Uga V’s Whatchagot Loran” at birth, will be 9 years old in July and is in good shape for his age.

“He will be at G-Day (this Saturday), at picture day and on the field next year,” Seiler said, adding Uga also will travel to Washington, D.C. for a reception with Georgia legislators.

Uga also will make an appearance on the Paula Deen Show for the Food Network in June, according to his owner.

Though it is traditional for the mascots to retire at the age of 10 and pass the reins on to a younger pup, it looks as though the current Uga still has a few seasons left in him before he lets go of his job.

However, if something should happen to UGA VI, Seiler said there are plenty of bulldogs to pick from.