VIDEO & GALLERY: Kirkland American Little League Opens Season With Parade, First Pitch

The 61st Kirkland American Little League baseball season got rolling Saturday under sunny skies, with a parade though downtown and ceremonies at Peter Kirk Park, followed by 20 games at Everest Park.

Hundreds of little leaguers in their colorful uniforms gathered at Marina Park before marching up Central Way to Lee Johnson Field at Peter Kirk Park, led a Kirkland motorcyle patrolman and an honor guard from the Overlake Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol.

The Mudcats were there, along with the the Lugnuts, Jaxx, Durham Bulls, Athletics, Iron Birds, Grasshoppers, Scrappers and many others.

"It's a joy today to see all the players," said John Rudolph, Kirkland American Little League (KALL) president. "It's exciting here in Kirkland, and something all the kids can enjoy."

The festivities were also historic, with a ceremonial first pitch marking the 60th anniversary of the league, with players on four teams first circling the bases at Peter Kirk in 1951.

One of those first players was introduced to the crowd, Ray McMackin, a shortstop on the Pirates and the 1951 KALL all stars.

Rudolph also announced that to celebrate the 60th anniversary, KALL teams would be joining those from the separate Kirkland National Little League for double-headers at the Peter Kirk field on five Thursdays this season. The National teams are from neighborhoods in northern parts of Kirkand and recently annexed areas of King County, and play most of their games at Juanita Beach Park and Big Finn Hill Park.

So enjoy a visual tour of the festivities with the photo gallery and Arnold Arnan's video -- and prepare to "play ball!"