lion king: ODU's big blue is top mascot.(Sports)

Staff report

Old Dominion mascot Big Blue proved that the lion is king Saturday, winning the coveted Capital One Mascot of the Year title. He won the popular vote in an Internet finals showdown against University of Texas-El Paso mascot Paydirt Pete. Big Blue was officially crowned during the Capital One Bowl in Orlando, Fla., besting 15 others and earning $20,000 for ODU's mascot program.

" His victory not only demonstrates his hard work, but the passion of students, alumni and supporters of our university," said ODU president Dr. John Broderick. "This is a wonderful honor and we are thrilled."

Last summer, 16 mascots were named to the ninth annual Capital One All-America Mascot Team, and have since been in a fierce competition . Since Aug. 31 , fans have come out in force casting their votes online .

The contest also included a write-in campaign for mascots not on the All-America team. This year's write-in winner was Oregon State's Benny the Beaver .

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getty images file photo

Old Dominion's Big Blue, above, edged Texas-El Paso's Paydirt Pete as the year's top mascot. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx