Bob Fenimore: The Blonde Bomber of Stillwater

Born October 6, 1925, in Woodward, Oklahoma, Bob Fenimore remains a cornerstone of Oklahoma State University football history. Known as the “Blonde Bomber,” Fenimore was an All-American athlete whose prowess on the field helped to elevate Oklahoma A&M College (now known as OSU) to national prominence. Fenimore’s legacy left a lasting mark on college football, helping to shape the proud history and fearsome reputation the OSU Cowboys still enjoy today.

A Legend in Oklahoma Sports

Fenimore was a standout player, with his ability to excel in multiple positions – tailback, safety, and even punter – making him one of the most versatile players of his day. From 1943 to 1946 he racked up a jaw-dropping total of 4,627 yards of offensive. This number stood as a school record until Mike Gundy surpassed it in 1989, and Fenimore’s 18 career interceptions set a school record that still stands. This all-around athleticism earned Fenimore back-to-back All-American honors in 1944 and 1945, while he finished third in the 1945 Heisman Trophy vote.

During his career at Oklahoma State, Fenimore established himself as a giant among the college gridiron stars with several firsts, records, and accomplishments. He became Oklahoma A&M's first All-American in 1944 and received the honor again in 1945. Fenimore led the Aggies to their first undefeated season and their first national championship as well as Sugar Bowl and Cotton Bowl championships. In 1947, he was the first overall pick in the NFL draft, selected by the Chicago Bears.

Bob Fenimore was not just a fantastic talent; he was a pioneer who led Oklahoma A&M to its first bowl game victories. Several thrilling performances in these games cemented Fenimore’s status as a college football legend. He scored two touchdowns in the 1945 Cotton Bowl against Texas Christian University, leading the Aggies to a 34-0 win. He was likewise instrumental in his team’s 1946 Sugar Bowl victory, during which he racked up a staggering 206 yards in total offense.

Even after an injury-plagued senior year, Fenimore was selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 1947 NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears, marking the first time any OSU player ever reached such a prestigious milestone.

Bob Fenimore and the Legacy of Stillwater

Bob Fenimore’s success brought national attention both to OSU and to the city of Stillwater. His name became synonymous with OSU football, and he is still remembered as one of the greatest Oklahoma athletes of all time. Those interested in the sports culture that Fenimore’s accomplishments helped to create won’t want to miss making a stop at Heritage Hall Museum, located inside Gallagher-Iba Arena on the OSU campus. And the next time you’re in the stands at an OSU home game, be sure to look up and see Fenimore’s jersey number 55 hanging in the Ring of Honor above the west end zone of Boone Pickens Stadium, right alongside those of his fellow Cowboy greats Barry Sanders and Thurman Thomas.

Plan Your Visit

Today, Bob Fenimore’s name is etched in the history books as one of Oklahoma's greatest athletes. Whether you're a sports fan, a history buff, or you’ve just been looking for a picturesque weekend away, Stillwater offers a unique blend of first-rate athletics, incredible museums, and small-town charm. Find places to stay and things to see and do during your visit, and explore all of our upcoming events to find that next big one you won’t want to miss.

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