KELSEYVILLE, Calif. – Saturday was a banner day for the Lake County Polar Plunge benefiting the county's Special Olympics chapter.

The event on the edge of Clear Lake at Lakeside County Park in Kelseyville reached a new high in both funds raised – $21,500 – and the number of participants – 100 – in the six years it's been taking place locally, according to organizers.

Past years have seen the average of total funds raised ranging between $12,000 and $16,000, as Lake County News has reported.

A dozen teams took part in this year's event: Early Lake Lions, Lake County Probation, Lakeport Kiwanis, Lakeport Police Department, Polar Penguins, Purple People, Saderlund Splashers, Shivering Sheriffs, Team Engle, Team People Services Chickens, the Lake Plungers and The Nailor Way.

In addition to those plunging into the lake there were “chickens,” who also participated in fundraising but who only tested the water temperature with their toes.

There also were plenty of colorful and fun costumes.

The event is the main fundraiser for Lake County Special Olympics, which this year has about 100 athletes taking part in its programs, according to event organizer Peggy Buchholz.

Buchholz said all of the money raised locally will be used for local athletes.

The littlest plunger at Saturday's event was Shelby Nailor of Nice, age 3.

Was Shelby there just to get her toes wet?

“No,” said dad, Jim Nailor, leader of The Nailor Way team. “She’s taking the whole plunge. She’s been talking about it for weeks.”

Email John Lindblom at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .