A group of hearty volunteers took an icy dip as a large group of well-wishes cheered them on. The Salina Polar Plunge event to help support Kansas Special Olympics was held Saturday at the Webster Conference Center.

The event featured an entire morning of activities, including a 5K “Polar Strut” run, a costume contest, and a luncheon.

The highlight was a plunge off a dock into the ice covered lake on the property. 

The lake was totaly covered with 8 – 10 inch thick ice as the day began. Officials used a chain saw to cut away an area around the dock so volunteers could take the plunge.

With two rescue divers in the water as a precaution and EMS standing by, about 20 people took the plunge into the 28 degree water. Many were dressed in colorful costumes, to the delight of the crowd. 

Each person who took the plunge was motivated by donations from friends and family. 

All proceeds from the Polar Plunge go to help Kansas Special Olympics.