NORMAN, Okla. — As the Oklahoma Sooners prepare for their first game of the season against UTEP on Friday night, one family is set to continue a remarkable tradition that has spanned half a century. Farooq and Bonne Karim have not missed a single home game in 50 years, a testament to their enduring bond and shared love for the Sooners.
Their game day routine has become a cherished ritual, one that begins with a familiar walk to the stadium that they have taken together for decades. "It’s the fact that you get six or seven games a year, so each of those days is precious in and of itself," Farooq expressed, highlighting the significance of these moments in their lives.
One of the most distinctive aspects of their tradition is the jersey they wear, emblazoned with the number 75. This number signifies the year they attended their first home game together, marking the beginning of a journey filled with memories. Bonne reminisced about their early days in the stadium, recalling, "We had tickets in the south end zone. In those days, it was the old bleachers."
Originally from Oregon, Bonne attended the University of Oregon for two years before transferring to the University of Oklahoma, where both she and Farooq would eventually graduate. Bonne fondly recalled how football games were free for students at Oregon, making the transition to paying for tickets at Oklahoma a surprising adjustment. "When I transferred to OU, I thought it was a crime you have to pay for football tickets," she said.
Over the years, the Karims have not only attended home games but have also traveled together to support the Sooners, creating countless treasured memories along the way. Farooq shared his fondness for the Nebraska games, particularly remembering the cold weather and the passionate fans. Bonne added to the nostalgia, recalling how they used to be able to go down on the field after games to collect autographs, with Farooq even snagging a pair of gloves from players as they entered the tunnel.
While the game day experience has evolved over the years, the essence of their tradition remains unchanged. Farooq described their pre-game routine: "We get there early, and she gets her cheese pizza, and I have two or three hot dogs before kickoff, and we watch everybody warm up." This simple yet meaningful practice encapsulates the joy they find in sharing these experiences with each other and the larger community of Sooners fans.
The camaraderie felt on game days is palpable, as they join approximately 80,000 fellow fans, each with their own stories and traditions. Farooq expressed gratitude for their unique experience, stating, "We’re honored to get to do this just because there’s so many other people that maybe even had tickets longer than we have and have similar stories, but it’s just special."
As the Oklahoma Sooners gear up for their season opener against UTEP, fans can expect to see Farooq and Bonne in their usual spots, continuing a legacy of love for their team and each other that has flourished over the past 50 years.
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