The 2016 Polar Plunge at Clark Lake (Saturday 1/30) broke all the records from previous years.  Jessica Tucker reports that over $25,000 has been raised and the counting is not yet complete.  A total of 189 participants braved the ice cold waters off Eagle Point.  The air temperature was in the high 30’s which was warmer than last year’s event, but the sun hid behind clouds.  But no matter what, for anyone jumping off the marina dock into one of the few open spots at Clark Lake, it must have been the coldest experience of a lifetime.

Dan Omo

Dan Omo takes the plunge. Photo: Carl Noechel

There are many photos and videos, courtesy of Carl Nochel, Jessica Tucker and Dan Omo.  Please enjoy and share!

The Michigan Department of Corrections SAI Division sent two teams to sample Clark Lake’s frigid waters, and both teams plunged twice.  Below is a drone video, courtesy of Dan Omo, of the first plunge of the morning of one of the Corrections teams.

The plunging began about 10:15 am.  Following the last plunge, participants and spectators gathered for the After Splash party at the Pointe Bar and Grill.  It was here that awards were announced.

Most money raised by an  individual – Becky Turk, $1740

Youngest person to plunge – Natalie Lutz, 11 years old (second year that she won this award)
Uniformity – Michigan Department of Corrections
Best style of jump – Michigan Center School
Best form – Spider Man
Best costume – Life Ways as “The Elements” (one of the plungers was dressed in aluminum foil)

View of the event looking east high over Eagle Point. Photo: Dan Omo

Today’s event at Clark Lake is one of 29 that take place across the state.  The money raised locally helps support 350 Special Olympic athletes in Jackson County.

Below are individuals and teams taking the plunge.  For best results click and expand the first photo, then advance by clicking on the arrow on the right edge of the photo.  Photos: Carl Noechel

More bone-chilling videos.

Videos: Jessica Tucker

 

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