Sunshine and clear blue skies greeted about 100 people who gathered at Windjammer Park to take a chilly plunge into the lagoon to kick-start the new year.

Melissa Riker, who organized Oak Harbor’s second 5K Resolution Run and Polar Bear Plunge, was just glad they waited again until noon to commence the New Year’s Day baptism.

“I think the water was a little bit colder this year,” she said. “There was some ice on it this morning as I was setting stuff up.”

Once noon came around, about three hours after setup, participants broke the water’s surface then broke into shrieks from the shocking experience.

A few jumped from the dock, but most ran into the water before quickly retreating back to the shore.

Bob Barnes wasn’t among them.

He played the role of spectator as he partook in his daily walk and came across the large gathering.

A resident of Oak Harbor since 1957 and a retired naval officer, Barnes was compelled to stay, watch and shake his head.

“I can’t think they’re all together,” he said, laughing. “It’s kind of a kick to see them. That was cold.”

Some took the plunge for personal reasons, others for the challenge and the thrill.

“It was horrible. It was freezing,” said Olivia Goodenough, a Coupeville High School freshman.

She and friend McKenzie Meyer participated in the run and plunge.

“They’re fun,” Meyer said.