On Thursday, April 9th the El Paso Chihuahuas will thrill an anxious crowd for opening day at Southwest University Park in downtown El Paso. For a whole season their mischievous mascot Chico kept the energy alive between the sports action. His signature “grrrr” exemplifies the spirit of the team as the underdog who doesn’t know when to quit.
The INSIDER managed to corral the busy canine for a one on one to get Chico’s thoughts on his newfound fame and things to come.
We met Chico on a breezy but warm day at the jazzy Pot Au Feu restaurant on Franklin Street in downtown El Paso. As Chico walked in, the silhouette emphasized his animated stride that completely underscored his well-known attitude. Present was that same look of intensity, as expected, but what was not expected was the canine charisma seemingly reserved for more personal interactions. A warm smile came over Chico as the waitress took his order of rare steak and frites.
Chico has not been idle between last season and the upcoming season, “I kept myself busy this offseason. I was in multiple parades, visited almost 100 schools/libraries and was even invited to represent El Paso in Austin Texas for El Paso Days,” he said, adding, “The offseason was great but I sure am ready for baseball season!”
Chico at EARTH MONTH press conference.
We asked Chico about his rough past, and how moving to the Sun City and working for the Chihuahuas has affected his life, and without even a wince he told us, “I love El Paso! The food is delicious, the people are wonderful, and Southwest University Park is the hottest spot in the city! With downtown growing, it is definitely a great time to be living in El Paso.”
Chico is no normal canine. The responsibility of being the embodiment of the team’s ferocity and fun year round can change a dog, but Chico seems to have taken this whole ride in stride. “Most celebrities hate being in the constant spotlight but I thrive off of it.” He pauses, looks off and with the most sincerity says, “I have the best fans in the world and would do anything for them.”
Well aware of this reputation as a showboat and rebel, Chico had this to say as he fervently worked at an itch behind his left ear, “I’m a Chihuahua! It’s in my nature to be mischievous and just have fun!”
With all of the fun and kindness we see Chico gift the city with, we couldn’t help but wonder if there was ever any puppy love in the air, “ No dating for me just yet,… my heart is for my fans and I love them all, especially those who feed me!”
You heard it here first folks, the way to Chico’s heart is definitely though his stomach.
With opening day only a week away, is Chico ready for the onslaught of summer fans? “I was born ready. I don’t have a specific checklist of what I need to do. I live for the excitement and can’t wait to see what memories 2015 has to come!”
For more information visit EPChihuahuas.com
