Freezin' for a Reason: Topeka holds 15th annual Polar Plunge

(WIBW)
Published: Feb. 2, 2019 at 4:38 PM CST
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Dozens of brave Topekans hit the frigid water of Lake Shawnee on Saturday for the 15th annual Topeka Polar Plunge.

"We call it 'freezin' for a reason,' and it is a fundraiser put on by local law enforcement to raise money for the athletes of Special Olympics," Kristi Powell, a detective for the Topeka Police Department, said.

Teams braved the early February cold for the plunge, but it was more than just an icy dip.

"It's all for a great cause," Rep. Steve Watkins said. "It's to help promote health, participation, and nutrition for the disabled, so they can be the wonderful participating members of society that they are."

The past 14 years of plungers 'freezin' for a reason' has raised nearly $350 thousand for Special Olympics Kansas.

"We figured we might as well have fun. Let's raise money and have fun at the same time," Powell said. "You know what, it's not something that somebody does every single day, it's kind of a unique thing."

Along with the swim, a 5K and a costume contest topped off the day.

"I think what's exciting is just the interaction between the athletes that we have from Special Olympics and the law enforcement community, and then everybody else who's out here," Topeka Police Chief Bill Cochran said. "It's just a tremendous event that brings a whole lot of different people together from all walks of life."

Money raised from the plunge will help fun equipment, sports training, competition, leadership opportunities, and health services for Special Olympics athletes across the state.