It marked the 17th time in the last 22 years that CAL has won the award at the annual parade held in the southern California city of Pasadena.

The theme of the 2008 Rose Parade was "Passport to the World's Celebrations," and the CAL entry fit in perfectly with the theme. The 55-foot-long "Carnival of Taiwan" float featured the Taiwanese perpetual symbol of joyous celebration -- the golden lion.

Comprised of Taiwan Phalaenopsis, orchids, roses and chrysanthemums in shades of gold, yellow and white, the float depicted the joy and spirit of a Taiwanese carnival celebrating the New Year.

Besides winning the International Trophy, the "Carnival of Taiwan" also finished fourth overall in voting for the most beautiful entry.

Peng Tsung-han, director of CAL's North American operations, said that because of the float's brilliant appearance and ingenuous design, he was confident beforehand that the "Carnival of Taiwan" would win the award.

Noting that the float represents Taiwan's participation in a major international event, Peng said the float's victory "has brought glory not only to CAL but also to all of Taiwan."