It's an annual tradition in South Lake Tahoe and it's sure to chill your bones, but also warm your heart. The Polar Plunge was held at Zephyr Cove with hundreds of people from the community.
Brave souls braced themselves and took a chilly afternoon dip into Lake Tahoe to raise money for the Special Olympic athletes of Northern California and Nevada.
"Once you get in, you can't wait to get out. It's really cold. You don't want to be in there very long," said Brian Olsen, a participant.
Joyce Whitney-Silva, with the Special Olympics of Northern California and Nevada added, "The water temperature is in the 40's, so yes it is cold."
Wet suits weren't allowed, but costumes were encouraged. Brian Olsen, a participant dressed up as the Flintstones characters with his friends. He takes part in the Polar Plunge every year.
"You get involved in your community, give back to your community and this is one of the ways we give back," said Olsen.
Each person that jumped in Lake Tahoe raised a minimum of $125.
"All that money goes directly to the athletes to help them with their equipment, to pay for ribbons, to pay for medals, and travel for those many different opportunities that they're involved in throughout the year," said Sheriff Chuck Allen, with the Washoe County Sheriff's Office.
WCSO Sheriff Chuck Allen, along with other law enforcement officers made the plunge to make sure the athletes can continue their love for sports.
Bryan Hatley, an athlete said his favorite sports were, "Basketball, and I like soccer. "
Tyrone Scheltz has been participating in the Special Olympics for the last 31 years. Every year he says he dives at the Polar Plunge to support his fellow athletes who can't.
"I dive all the way under the water each year," said Tyrone Scheltz, an athlete. "Some athletes can't do that. Some can't walk that great, or some guys in the wheelchairs."
The Special Olympics of Northern California and Nevada provides athletic opportunities to children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The organization says they rely on funding to support activities.
"All of our athletes participate in the program at no cost. And so this is a vital one to keep the program going. And to keep those athletes involved in every sport that they want to be," said Whitney-Silva.
The event raised thousands of dollars on Saturday.
