Arkansas seeks to get pig to more events

Fayetteville, Ark. — University of Arkansas officials want the Razorbacks’ official live mascot, a large, hairy pig named Tusk II, to show up at more sporting events, and they’re asking fans to donate money to make that possible.

Tusk lives on the Stokes family farm in Dardanelle, and makes a two-hour trek up to northwest Arkansas for every Razorback football game, according to a news release from the Arkansas athletic department.

A “Tusk Fund” has been set up to help pay for more such trips, the release said.

“The establishment of the Tusk Fund could allow … Tusk II, to attend more Razorback events such as basketball, soccer, baseball and many more of Arkansas 19 intercollegiate sporting events,” the release said.

Arkansas athletic director Jeff Long said the Tusk Fund was a voluntary way for fans to help support the live mascot program.

“Our live mascot is an integral part of our tradition and serves as a great source of pride for Razorbacks everywhere,” Long said.

The news release said contributions to the Tusk Fund may be made anywhere Tusk II appears, starting this weekend at the Ole Miss football game at Fayetteville, or through the Razorback Foundation.