This year’s brisk winds and big waves were no joke, but it was well worth it to participants in this year’s Ludington Lake Jump, as they faced off with the frigid waters of Lake Michigan in support of the West Shore Amateur Hockey Association, home of the West Shore Wolves, on Saturday morning.

Participants gathered at the south end of Stearns Park Beach, where tents were set up. People joined in the singing of the “Star Spangled Banner” before heading to the shoreline, eagerly waiting for the countdown.

When the signal was given, participants of all ages, from children to older adults, raced to the water, and with the cold winds, it didn’t take long for them to race back out. Some commented how it the temperatures really cooled off after a few days of warm, mild weather but it offered even more of a challenge.

The Ludington Lake Jump is in its 27th year, and Mayor Mark Barnett, who was cheering everyone on, said he’s participated in 12 or so Lake Jump events since he’s been in Ludington, and he’s learned over the years that it helps to wear shoes and sweatpants pants in the water instead of just T-shirt, swimming shorts and no shoes — like the first year he gave it a go.

“It doesn’t make it any warmer, but it helps afterwards,” he said.

Event organizers said there were about 100 participants this year, and they don’t remember the waves ever being this big during the event day.

The Ludington Lake Jump event raises money through pledges people take to participate in the jump.

Proceeds from this year’s event go toward reduced player fees and financial assistance for local families; ice time; equipment; safe, quality programming; a scholarship fund to ensure no child is excluded due to financial hardship and a growing long-term fund through the local Community Foundation for Mason County, working toward a future where ice fees are fully covered, according to a press release from earlier this year.

“Every sponsorship and every jump directly helps us keep hockey affordable and accessible for local families, ensuring that every child who wants to play has the opportunity to do so.” said Heather Tykoski, President of the West Shore Amateur Hockey Association in the press release. “The Ludington Lake Jump gives our business community a powerful way to invest in local youth, support families, and keep hockey affordable for the next generation.”