Warm hearts, cold bodies: Plunge into the icy waters of Lake Olathe for this cause

Jody Gregory has figured out a great way to raise donations: Ask someone if they would rather give to a good cause or jump into Lake Olathe in February.

“A lot of people want to give money,” Gregory said with a laugh.

Gregory will be raising money by making that frigid leap at the 2025 Kansas City Polar Plunge. It’s happening Feb. 22 at Lake Olathe Swim Beach, 445 S. Ward Cliff Drive.

The event raises money and awareness for Special Olympics Kansas, which supports more than 5,500 athletes with intellectual disabilities. This annual fundraising event is hosted by Special Olympics Kansas and the Law Enforcement Torch Run.

“The Polar Plunge is an opportunity to come together to push your limits, have fun and make a lasting impact,” Chris Burt, chief operating officer of Special Olympics Kansas, said in a press release. “This event celebrates the courage of our athletes while challenging our community.”

This is the fourth year the event has been held at Lake Olathe. Last year, more than 300 people participated, and as of early February, nearly 300 had already registered. Many plunge as individuals, but often participants form teams, ranging from two members to more than 20.

Participants don’t have to jump in the water. There is a 5K called the Polar Strut. The Feb. 22 event opens with registration at 9 a.m., the Polar Strut 5K at 10 a.m., an opening ceremony at 11 a.m., a costume contest at 11:10 a.m. and the Polar Plunge at 11:30 a.m.

Gregory, labor relations manager for Heartland Coca Cola Bottling Co. and a member of the Special Olympics Kansas board, has been involved in the event for more than 10 years. This year, her sister and son will be joining her.

Gregory was introduced to the event through two people: a coworker and a friend. Both had family members participating in the Special Olympics.

“I had a passion due to my friends and the cause,” Gregory said. “I used to do the 5K. Actually, I think the plunge is easier than the 5K. Once you do it, you get used to it.”

And plunging into cold water does have its benefits, she said.

“You definitely have a lot of energy after,” Gregory said. “Your blood is pumping.”

A hint to new plungers: Be prepared by bringing several bags for wet clothes and several towels to dry off.

“You learn,” Gregory said.

For more information, go here to soks.org/polar-plunge

This story was originally published February 14, 2025 at 5:00 AM.