2020 Polar Plunge benefits Kentucky Special Olympics

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ) – Supporters of Special Olympics Kentucky braved the cold and made a splash in the 2020 Polar Plunge.

Around 250 people lined up in 28-degree weather and took a dive into a 41- degree pool, all to raise money for athletes with cognitive disabilities across the state.

Participants came from all over, ranging from individuals or teams, many wearing costumes and even makeup.

Jennifer McMahon, Development Director of Special Olympics Kentucky, says this fundraising is important because it helps more than 10,000 athletes and gives them a greater chance at success.

“We think of our athletes as brave individuals,” McMahon says. “They face adversity in their everyday life. They push themselves extremely hard in order to achieve on and off the playing field.”

The Lexington Polar Plunge is one of five annual events like this across the state, and on Saturday more than $61,000 was raised in Lexington alone.

To sign up next year when the link reopens, be sure to visit lexingtonplunge.com