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Columbia Honors Special Olympics Team at Polar Plunge

Community members participating in the Columbia Polar Plunge event.

News Summary

On February 10, 2025, Columbia, SC celebrated the White Knoll Middle School’s Special Olympics team’s impressive victory at the annual Lake Murray Polar Plunge. Participants dove into icy waters to raise funds for the Special Olympics, and the team raised $15,863, claiming first place. This event, filled with fun activities and community support, showcases the dedication to athletes with disabilities and emphasizes safety, with law enforcement present throughout the plunge. The excitement of the event leaves everyone eager for next year’s plunge.

Columbia Celebrates Special Olympics Team’s Big Win at Polar Plunge

Columbia, SC was buzzing with excitement this past Saturday, February 10, 2025, as the annual Lake Murray Polar Plunge kicked off at the Lake Murray Dam in Lexington County. This beloved event welcomed brave participants who took the chilly plunge into the lake, all for a fantastic cause—raising funds for the Special Olympics South Carolina, benefiting over 30,000 athletes across the state.

A Splash of Support!

On a crisp morning that promised both thrills and chills, participants began arriving at 10 a.m. to register for the plunge. But it wasn’t just about diving into the icy waters; it was a day filled with fun activities. Attendees eagerly participated in a lively costume contest and had the chance to snag awards at 11 a.m., showcasing their creative outfits. As the clock struck 11:30 a.m., it was time for the main event, and participants took the plunge into the brisk waters of Lake Murray, united in their mission to support a wonderful cause.

White Knoll Takes the Crown

Among the many teams gearing up for the plunge, the spotlight this year was on the White Knoll Middle School’s Special Olympics team, who truly made a splash by not only joining the cold waters but also securing first place at the event! Their incredible spirit and determination shone through as they raised a remarkable total of $15,863 for the Special Olympics. What a fantastic achievement!

Safety Comes First

Your safety is always a top priority! The event saw an extraordinary involvement from law enforcement officers, who played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of all participants. Three dedicated divers—Willis Bowers, Bradley Miller, and Nick Santangelo—were stationed as lifeguards, ready to assist if needed. Moreover, numerous officers from Region 3 provided additional support from boats throughout the plunge, ensuring that everyone was safe while they took the plunge into the icy lake.

Parking Made Easy

With excitement in the air, it’s no surprise that the event drew a large crowd. However, parking at the venue was a bit tricky due to ongoing construction work. Not to worry though! Shuttle services were available to transport participants to and from the event, making it a breeze to get to all the fun-filled activities without the headache of looking for a parking spot.

More Than Just a Plunge

The Lake Murray Polar Plunge isn’t simply about taking a dip in cold water; it’s a significant annual fundraising effort organized by the Law Enforcement Torch Run officers. With a focus on supporting athletes with disabilities, the event highlights community spirit and the importance of sports and inclusivity. The contributions made by participants and spectators alike serve to uplift athletes and promote the values of courage, determination, and joy.

A Celebratory Tradition

As always, the Lake Murray Polar Plunge turned out to be a grand success, with excitement echoing in Columbia. It’s heartwarming to see the community come together, splash around, and support such an incredible cause year after year. With the White Knoll Middle School’s team leading the charge this time around, the event reminded everyone that a little chill can come with a lot of heart!

So, will you join in next time? Mark your calendars for next year’s Polar Plunge and get ready to make a difference while having a blast!