Great Weather For Annual Polar Plunge
Pie Eyed Petey’s in Leesburg sponsored it’s sixth annual Polar Plunge this afternoon. Plungers and spectators couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful day to freeze for a good cause. The event begins at 10 a.m., when spectators and plungers begin to show up.
Each year, people from far and near show up at Pie Eyed Petey’s to take an icy dip in the Tippecanoe Lake. This year, those involved got a little more sun and a lot warmer weather than last years subzero temperatures. The water temperature was a relatively mild 37 degrees for those who chose to brave the ice and snow.
Plungers brought food donations in order to participate in the event, and signed a waiver when registering themselves. Many of the participants choose to group together with friends or teams, and costumes are a must. Food donations will be given to area food pantries.
At 1 p.m. a large line formed on each side of the icy clearing, as professional dive crews donned heavy suits and masks to keep plungers safe.
This year’s plunge saw everything from simple swim gear to wizard costumes to non-professional dive gear. Regardless of the outfit, the squeal when warm bodies touched cold water was universal.
North Webster EMS and the Kosciusko County Dive Team were on hand in case of any emergencies.
The crowds cheered on friends and family, and dared each other to take the plunge. Whether those promises of a plunge will stick, spectators will have to wait to see for another year.
- A dive team member prepares for those who wanted to take the plunge. (Photo by Chelsea Los)
- Spectators wait in line. (Photo by Chelsea Los)
- Brian Smoker with Drake, neither one took the plunge this year, but decided to stay warm and dry at a safe distance. (Photo by Chelsea Los)
- Brittany Adams, Lauren Shortill, Dustin Cloud, Travis Hermann-Shepler before the event. (Photo by Chelsea Los)
- These gentlemen came all the way from Carmel for this event. From left are Jeff Horner, Scott Plinkington, Scott B. (who didn’t want to give last name), and Colin McGraw
- Photo by Chelsea Los
- Photo by Chelsea Los
- Photo by Chelsea Los