'Swim For Sight' takes plunge in Olcott

Swimmers enjoy warmer lake waters

The 52nd Olcott Lions “Polar Bear Swim For Sight” was staged Sunday at Olcott Beach.

Participants found temperatures in the low 70s – a marked change from the typical late-winter cold. Due to uncertainties with the state’s COVID-19 restrictions, the fundraising event was moved from its traditional early March celebration to late May.

Despite the challenges, the Olcott Lions Club did an admiral job of organizing this year’s “Swim for Sight” and raising money for various programs.

A total of 135 swimmers signed up and were let into the Lake Ontario waters off Krull County Park in small groups, frolicking in the balmy, 52-degree water. Grand Island's Carolyn Wain was chosen as the 2021 Polar Bear Queen.

As of this writing, the Lions were still tabulating the total amount raised. (Photos by Wayne Peters)

2021 Polar Bear Queen Carolyn Wain.

Superman waiting on the beach for his turn at the water.

The queen contestants have fun on the beach as they await the judge's decision.

The Polar Bear Queen contestants have their turn in the lake.

Frolicking in the water under the watchful eye of the Olcott Fire Co.