Battle Ground, Washougal floats win prizes at Grand Floral Parade

The City of Washougal Mini-Float featuring a BMX scene takes part in Portland Rose Festival’s Grand Floral Parade in downtown Portland Saturday. (Natalie Behring for the Columbian)

By Troy Brynelson, Columbian staff writer

Clark County had yet another strong showing at the 2017 Spirit Mountain Grand Floral Parade, the four-mile parade highlighting Portland’s annual Rose Festival.

The Battle Ground community float deployed this year embodied the folk song “Froggy Went A-Courtin’” and garnered the Grand Marshal Award for “best depiction of whimsy.”

Meanwhile, Washougal won the Dick Powers Picture Perfect Award for best mini-float. About 30 floats participated this year, including the mini-floats, which are built on golf carts instead of trucks. Washougal’s float depicted a BMX bike rider on a hill.

Honors also went to marching bands from Battle Ground High School and Heritage High School, who were both awarded first place in their respective divisions. Battle Ground also won an award for most support from out-walkers — parents and others who escort the band and floats.

“They always turn out. They’re well-disciplined, well-trained. It’s always a pleasure to have Battle Ground,” spokesman Rich Jarvis said.

Equestrian awards were given to Miss Vancouver Rodeo Ali Diegel, Clark County Fair Mounted Patrol, and DJ Glenn Hadduck.