Locals participated in Warsaw’s fifth annual Polar Plunge today, Feb. 16.

WARSAW — With temperatures in the 20s and cloudy skies, locals braved the chilly waters of Warsaw’s Center Lake today, Feb. 16, to raise money for Special Olympics Indiana.

More than 50 people, from individuals and pairs to groups decked out in “cool” ice cube costumes, participated in the annual Polar Plunge. This is the fifth year the event has been held in Warsaw.

The Polar Plunge is Special Olympics Indiana’s signature fundraiser. All funds raised from this plunge and others across the state will benefit current and future Special Olympics athletes.

This is the 20th year for the Polar Plunge in Indiana. To date, the Polar Plunge has raised over $6 million for Special Olympics Indiana programs and events. Currently, the total estimated pledge amount for all of Warsaw’s participants is approximately $12,000. However, this number will continue to rise with matching donations from companies and online donations.

Participants in the plunge were required to raise a minimum of $75 in pledges. Students who participated were required to raise $50.

The Golden Bear award, a prize given to the largest competing team, was awarded to Manchester University with 13 participants. Jeff Taylor won an award for the most money raised as an individual, with $1,050 raised. DePuy Synthes won an award for the most money raised as a team, with $2,920 raised.

After taking the dive, participants warmed up with pizza during After Splash Bash activities.