Warsaw Polar ‘Plungers’ raise $20,000 for Special Olympics Indiana

This post was provided by News Now Warsaw

By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

WARSAW — Special Olympics Indiana made a triumphant return to Warsaw Saturday after a multi-year absence with its ever-popular polar plunge at Center Lake.

More than 100 people took the plunge, or at least ran into the lake from the beach, with many cheering them on.

Tara Clark, serving as the county chair for the event, said the event in Warsaw was expected to raise nearly $20,000.

“This is a really good level for first year,” Clark said.

In recent years, the closest Special Olympics polar plunge took place in North Manchester.

Jay Beere (pronounced Beery) was the top fundraiser, helping collect some $4,500 and was deemed a “Super Plunger.”

He said his daughter encouraged him to get involved years ago and that he’s been a top supporter in previous years.

He credits his connections in the construction industry for his success.

He said he likes being involved.

“I’ve met a lot of good people, which is why it’s close to me,” said Beere.

Temperatures were in the upper 20s during the event.

“It’s cold, but it’s only a couple minutes, and for what it’s for, it’s definitely worth it,” he said.

Sabrina Turner has been taking the plunge since 2011 but opted to do a “virtual” plunge this year and still raised more than $1,000.

Money from the state-wide fundraiser goes toward the state’s Special Olympics held regularly in Terre Haute.

“It helps us to go to tournaments. It pays for equipment we need and housing,” Turner said.

Local participants gathered ahead of the plunge at the Zimmer Biomet Center Lake Pavilion, where opening ceremonies and a costume contest were held.

The event had strong corporate support.

A group of employees from Edgewood Middle School in Warsaw, dressed in orange tutus, won the costume contest.

Warsaw Wayne Fire Territory was on hand, and the dive team covered the outer perimeter of the exposed waters to make sure nobody swam out too far.

Below are a few photos, including the first one of the winning costume contest winners.

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