Part of the tradition and legacy of the parade is the crowning of the Rose Queen and her court. The group of young women are ambassadors for the Tournament of Roses, as the eyes of the world focus on Pasadena.
[Ads /]
Marez, 18, was chosen as the 100th Rose Queen from among nearly 1,000 applicants. She was selected for her poise, academic achievement, leadership and community involvement.
RELATED: La Salle High School senior crowned 2018 Rose Queen
La Salle High School senior, Isabella Marez, crowned 2018 Rose Queen
The La Salle High School senior and the Roses Royal Court have attended nearly 100 community events.
[Ads /]
When asked how she is preparing for the big parade, Marez said she's focusing on having fun.
"We get up really early. We wake up probably about 1 a.m., and then we're on a roll. I think the most advice that we get as a court is to really enjoy the moment. It's a long day, it's a busy day, but to really take in all the excitement, all the joy, all the busyness of the day and just enjoy it as much as we can," she said.
As for her plans for the future, Marez said she's hoping to be a physician's assistant after college and work in refugee camps and immigration clinics in Third World countries.
Don't miss the queen and her royal court as they ride down Colorado Boulevard on New Year's Day.
Watch the Rose Parade live on ABC7 starting at 8 a.m. Jan. 1.