Polar Plunge participants raise more than 60K for Special Olympics Missouri

On Saturday, Feb. 8, Cape County Park North in Southeast Missouri hosted the 19th annual Polar Plunge, which drew 165 participants from 24 teams who braved the chilly waters to support Special Olympics athletes.

This year’s event saw increased participation from last year’s 134 plungers, with water temperatures at 40 degrees and air temperatures at 52 degrees, accompanied by wind gusts between 13 and 24 mph. The event successfully raised $64,000, close to its $66,000 goal.

Event coordinator Penny Williams expressed optimism the target would be met by the end of the week. Donations are still being accepted online at https://support.somo.org/event/2025-polar-plunge-cape-girardeau/e623337.

Among individual fundraisers, Special Olympic athlete Lisa Berryhill led with $2,800, followed by Addison Stratton with $2,150 and John Atkinson with $2,050. Festus Middle School topped the team fundraising efforts with $5,355, while Chaffee Glo Devils and the Sam’s Club team raised $4,370 and $4,078, respectively.

“Special Olympics means so much to me. It was a great day. I feel so much acceptance and support,” said Berryhill, a SOMO athlete, ambassador and top athlete fundraiser.

The event also featured a competition for the “Golden Plunger” with Festus Middle School Minions taking first place in the group category. Individual honors went to Colby Cuzzocrea, Anna Baker and a tie among Lucas Blattel, Daniel Fultz, Kayla Dannenmueller and Logan Gardner.

Special recognition was given to Jackson High School’s Conner Strickland, who received the Polar Plunge Spirit of John John Atkinson Award, and the team honoring Lisa Reitzel, who received the Legacy of Giving Award.

“It was a beautiful and amazing day to be raising money for amazing athletes. Thanks to all those who give so much of themselves, going far beyond their comfort level, to help someone else,” plunge coordinator Williams said.

The Polar Plunge is an annual event that provides funding for Special Olympics Missouri athletes in the region. Participants ranging from schools to local organizations don costumes and take the plunge to show their commitment to the cause.

If anyone missed out on this Polar Plunge, there will be another one Saturday, March 22, hosted by the Southeast Missouri State Greeks. The goal for this event is to raise another $15,000.