NM: Rio Metro Introduces New Mascot
More than 800 people voted, and the winning name for the Rail Runner mascot is Trax.
Trax was unveiled to the public at the May 2 Albuquerque Isotopes game, where he threw out the first pitch and presented the winner of the naming contest with a prize.
In March, the Rio Metro Regional Transit District conducted a contest to name the mascot. The top four names were announced, and then the public was then given the opportunity to vote for their favorite. Trax, the winning name, was submitted by Jim Badami of Rio Rancho. The top four finalists were all invited to tonight’s Isotopes game, and Badami won a prize package consisting of a bike donated by Fat Tire Cycles in Albuquerque, free passes for the Rail Runner, and passes for a future Isotopes game.
The Mascot’s Story
This friendly roadrunner came to us from the Rio Grande River Valley where he spent his days catching mice, lizards and even snakes! Like the Rail Runner, locals revere the roadrunner for its courage, strength, speed and endurance. Growing up near the rail road tracks, he learned much about trains – like how fun they can be and how to be safe around them. Trax can often be seen around schools and community events promoting rail safety and spreading the fun of rail travel.
