Just a few days ago Clark Lake was immersed in the frigid zone. Wind added to the brutal cold. Fast forward to Saturday, January 25. For the 2025 Polar Plunge at Eagle Point, the sun was out and the temperature topped 30. And the wind sweeping across the lake didn’t deter anyone from jumping into the water. But words fall short of describing the experience of hitting the freezing water. The Freezin’ for a Reason was accompanied by groans, shouts and expletives while the fans in the stands, cheered. Special Olympics benefited. Kayla Kubik reports $64,400 was donated, and that tops last years total.
520 registered to participate this year. Most of them show up in this video. Some will tell why they wanted to jump into Clark Lake, and then, review the experience. The comment at the end is very telling.
Thanks to Jay Coller for sharing his aerial view of the event.
Stopping plunges in midflight offers another way to relate to the experience. These photos catch the plungers just as their about to hit the incredibly cold water. As their expressions suggest, they are about to experience shock and awe, Clark Lake style.
Stop action, Part 1
Stop action, Part 2
Special Olympics handed out awards to recognize the fundraising effort and the entertainment provided by creative costumes.
The top individual fundraiser was Lisa Hendricks. She’s also holding awards to the Top Team fundraiser, Jackson Probation, and top Michigan Department of Corrections team fundraiser, also Jackson Probation.
Top Law Enforcement Team fundraisers were the Adrian Police Department. Here they are in the Eagle’s Nest parking lot, just before their plunge. Scroll down to see them holding their award.
Liam Kinsella, age 8, was the youngest.
Suzie Freeman of Clark Lake, received the Oldest Plunger award.
Best Costume – Rick Bochasy
Best Team Costume – Men Cheerleaders
An event like the Polar Plunge does not happen without lots of support. Along with Blair Huff and his staff, here are some of those who made it happen.
Jackson Sheriff's Dept Dive Team
