Polar Plunge supports Special Olympics

Oliver, who wants to be a police officer, plunged with the Shawnee Police Department team. (Photo copyright 2018 by Brian Turrel)

by Brian Turrel

Thirty-one teams participated in the Special Olympics Polar Plunge, held Saturday morning at Schlitterbahn water park.

The event was especially well supported by local Kansas police and fire departments, which formed many of the participating teams. The event raised money for Special Olympics Kansas.

The plunge was preceded by a 5k race and a costume contest.

Special Olympics athlete David Hunter, left,
lit the torch to signify the start of the plunge. (Photo copyright 2018 by Brian Turrel)
The Kansas City, Kansas, Fire Department provided water rescue assistance for the event. Fortunately, no rescues were needed. (Photo copyright 2018 by Brian Turrel)
The temperature of the water was announced at 32 degrees. (Photo copyright 2018 by Brian Turrel)
The Bonner Springs Special Olympics team braved the frigid waters. (Photo copyright 2018 by Brian Turrel)
The Harmon High School team made a splash. (Photo copyright 2018 by Brian Turrel)
“Polar Smurf” waved to the crowd before his plunge. (Photo copyright 2018 by Brian Turrel)
Runners neared the finish line in the Polar Strut 5k run. (Photo copyright 2018 by Brian Turrel)
The Kansas City, Kansas, Fire Department team, having finished its rescue duties, got to plunge last. (Photo copyright 2018 by Brian Turrel)