PASADENA, Calif. — The rain that made California roads wet Monday morning did not dampen the spirits of more than 300 Lowndes High School Georgia Bridgemen as they performed for the first time as part of the prestigious Tournament of Roses Parade.

The seven-mile trek began with a special performance for NBC, an opportunity provided by Libby Wright, president of the Tournament of Roses. When the network decided to lead with several minutes of coverage of the band of her choice, Wright chose the Bridgemen, claiming they had made a great impression during her tour of the area during Winnersville weekend.

After the kickoff performance, the band quickly traveled on foot to its original 65th position in the parade.

“It was something that had never been done in the history of the Tournament of Roses parade,” said Charles Todd, band director, adding that the transition from first back to 65th was smooth. “It was very well planned.”

For the first time in 51 years, rain poured over the organic floats, bands and equestrian units, but did not affect the kids’ excitement. Rain gear, allowed due to stormy weather, prevented damage to uniforms as the band marched for three hours and

5.5 miles through Pasadena, Calif., performing a medley of songs by Carlos Santana.

“It was an incredible experience,” Todd said, his voice full enthusiasm. “The people here are so warm and accepting. It was their support that gave our kids confidence and stamina throughout the parade.”

He explained how the crowd cheered and shouted words of encouragement, including “Go Georgia” to the Bridgemen. He lead the band throughout the parade along with five assistant directors, Robert Maynard, Richard Mclendon, Phil Mika, Debbie Bradley and Alan Drew.

The experience may have culminated Monday, but it began during the summer with conditioning and power walks. The first walks were for just one to two miles, progressing to five miles or longer. October brought more practices incorporating music.

Limited practice was possible in California. A music rehearsal was held in the ballroom of the Double Tree Hotel and a marching rehearsal was made possible when the neighboring parking deck was shut down at night, allowing members to practice steps and turns.

Thanks to extensive practice and great talent, the performance went smoothly.

An additional special invitation landed the jazz band with a performance at a luncheon for band directors and the music committee. Here the 2006 parade marshall, Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, was a speaker and the guest of honor. She spoke directly after their performance and commented to the crowd on the band members’ talent; she added that she could not believe they were merely in high school.

Lowndes County students enjoyed a week-long trip to Pasadena, Calif. In addition to their parade performance, they were able to witness the beautiful area and landscaping and visited the Pacific Ocean, the San Diego Zoo and several theme parks. They also experienced a dinner cruise and did some high-quality shopping.

The Bridgemen have an extensive history of performing in famous events.

In April 2002, the Bridgemen performed in the annual Cherry Blossom Festival parade in Washington, D.C. A year later, the marching band was invited to perform during Macy’s 77th Annual Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. In January, the Georgia Bridgemen traveled to Washington D.C. to march in the 2005 Inaugural Parade.

Todd would not give a concrete on the band’s plans for 2006; however, he promises it could be equally exciting.

“We’ve got something that I can’t really say yet, but it may be another televised parade that will give more national television coverage, maybe even worldwide coverage,” Todd teased. “We are waiting to make sure we get the invitation before we announce anything.”

Attending the Tournament of Roses again is definitely in his future plans. Officials encouraged Todd to reapply every other year. He says future success will start here at home with community support.

The encouragement and support given this year to the band is valued by all involved. “We appreciate all the support that the school board and the community has shown,” Todd said. We all share in the success of this band and we are proud to represent the community well.”