With air temperatures barely topping 20 degrees, Saturday morning was the perfect time for individuals to take a dip in Emporia’s Mouse Lake.
The 2024 Polar Plunge supporting Special Olympics Kansas was held at the lake with several residents stepping up to leap, flip and even belly flop into the freezing waters. Longtime organizer and emcee for Saturday’s activities Scott Hayes says while chilling temperatures would typically turn most people away from outdoor activities, the plunge is one of the rare events where frosty air only adds to the excitement.
The annual event, now in its 19th year in Emporia, always sees a familiar set of faces including Lindy Whetzel who has participated almost every year. For Whetzel the event is much more than just an opportunity to support a cause she greatly admires, it is also a family affair.
This year’s plunge raised $15,000 in support of local Special Olympics Athletes. Special Olympics Southeast Kansas Region Director Savanna Cavanaugh thanked everyone who participated an attended saying Polar Plunge is a unique experience that leads to unique experiences.
As always, this year’s event also included a costume contest amongst the participating teams. The winning team was the Lyon County Sheriff’s Office’s “Chain Gang” with the best individual costume going to Neil Dean of Team CareArc.
Whetzel was the top individual fundraiser with the Lyon County Sheriff’s Office “Chain Gang” taking home the top team fundraiser award with over $2,000 raised.
Click here for a video of the first team plunge.
Photos by Tagan Trahoon/KVOE News
