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Columbians plunge into icy Stephens Lake

Water temperatures in the mid-30’s didn’t stop people from plunging into Stephen’s Lake in Columbia on Saturday for the Polar Plunge. By Emily Hauger

A record 430 participants raised money and jumped into icy waters in support of Missouri Special Olympics. Event coordinator Diane Brimer says based on preliminary calculations, the event raised nearly 63-thousand dollars. But Brimer says they hope to reach the goal of $71,000 with continued donations in the next few weeks.  Brimer says the event also brings athletes into the community.

“It’s really great because I see a lot of our plungers see our athletes and come and talk to them and ask them questions about what they do.  So, it really means a lot to them because people are recognizing them as athletes and that’s what they love,” Brimer said.

This the fifth year the Polar Plunge has been in Columbia.  Participants say they plunged to support lost loved ones, benefit current athletes and just to say they did it.