By Taylor J. Hale

Staff Writer

PORTAGE COUNTY – Central Wisconsin residents came together to help raise funds during the annual Wisconsin Rapids Polar Plunge on Feb. 1.

The plunge has taken place at Anchor Bar & Grill for the last four years, but jumpers had a chance to try the new plunge pool at Ridges Golf Course for this year’s icy excursion.

The Polar Plunge helps fund Special Olympics athletes. Organization leaders said that the Wisconsin Rapids plunge raised roughly $65,000 this year, down from last year’s $83,000.

Local plungers pull themselves from the icy waters. Taylor Hale photo.

Several central Wisconsin law enforcement departments participated in this year’s event. Officers from the Stevens Point Police Department made their annual appearance at the plunge. The officers dove through the air into the chilly pool in pursuit of a costumed “robber.”

Did you miss the Wisconsin Rapids Polar Plunge but still want to jump or help Special Olympics Wisconsin? Polar Plunges take place across the state until Mar. 7. For more information on how to sign up or donate, visit https://polarplungewi.org.

Contact Taylor J. Hale at thale@mmclocal.com with Portage County news and information.