A record 576 swimmers participated in the 2007 Polar Bear 'Swim for Sight' , almost 100 more than the previous record set last year. A total of $15,000 was raised this year to aid Lions sight programs and other vital community services. Thank you to all Polar Bear swimmers and supporters.

Newfane college student, Mike Zehler, was once again the top fundraiser, contributing $2,400. Trevor Noon, a 9-year old Newfane student was right behind, raising more than $1,000. Along with his mother Carol and grandfather, Dave Kirkpatrick of Lockport, the family has raised more than $5,000. over recent years. Joe Rojek of Amherst, Tracy Dehn of Niagara Falls, Dave and Melissa Mika of Tonawanda, along with employees of Independent Health, also raised more than $1,000 each.

Tina Clark and fellow Ransomville Lions deserve a big round of thanks for their strong fundraising efforts year after year. The hardy team of Wilson High School students participated again this year and the ever popular Lockport Rugby Team made their presence known.

Eoin Walsh of Tipperary, Ireland, fiance of Wilson businees women, Gina Guido, participated in the swim and said the frigid North Atlantic Ocean prepared him well for the bracing water of Lake Ontario. And, what a difference a day makes; Steve Leader of San Diego, California made the trip to Olcott after he had been surfing in the Pacific Ocean the previous day.

Lions District Governor Kimberly Stribing was among an elite group who raised more than $250., and she also helped judge the Queen contest before going in the water. The Newfane Lions once again sold-out their delicious and popular chicken chowder and the Gasport Lions were a notably successful addition to the Lion's food service line-up.

For Photos of the 2007 Olcott Lions Polar Bear Swim for Sight, go here.