More than 100 people lined up in groups Saturday morning to dive into Lake Raleigh’s 39-degree water as part of the Polar Plunge.
To raise money for the Special Olympics of North Carolina, organizers from Campus Police required the plungers to collect at least $50 worth of donations to jump in the icy cold water.
Several groups from on-campus fraternities and associations donated to support the cause, as well as many local sponsors. Some jumped in with costumes while others wore the bare minimum.
Phil Swaney, a third time attendee, raised $4,926 and won the prize for being the individual who raised the most money.
“It’s all about raising money,” Swaney said. “Several friends, businesses and good people contributed to my fund.”
Officer Steve Carlton put together the third annual Polar Plunge with the help of 30 on-site volunteers.
“This is the first year with a boat ramp,” Carlton said. “We are working on making this safer — it should be more clear and more fun.”
The plunge involves running into the lake until the water reaches the runner’s chest or waist. However, some opt to dive in head first.
“It was really cold, but it was worth it,” Jonathan Rogers, a sophomore in interdisciplinary studies, said. “It sounded like fun.”
With the growing turnout, many first-time attendees took the plunge or provided support.
Edward Funkhouser, the College Humanities and Social Sciences interim associate dean for academic affairs, made the announcements at the event.
“This is my first year at the Polar Plunge,” Funkhouser said. “I assume it [the water] is quite cold.”
Several raffles were also distributed to the participants after their swim in Lake Raleigh. Awards were distributed to the plungers including awards for the youngest plunger, the oldest plunger, the best costume, the largest group to plunge and the individual who raises the most money.
The InterResidence Council members, winners of the award for largest student group and best costumes, dressed up as super heroes for the event.
“It’s so exciting,” Amanda Bedsaul, a senior in electrical engineering and member of the IRC, said. “Most of us came out to support, but it was a lot of fun.”
Attendees could shop at the bake sale as well as enjoy the heaters, warm food and hot chocolate donated to the event to warm up participants after taking a brief swim in Lake Raleigh’s freezing water.
“It’s all for a good cause,” Peter Barnes, freshman in forestry management and member of Sigma Pi, said. “I’d definitely do it again next year.”