Over a recent 24-hour period, a couple of dozen people plunged into the frigid Willamette River, every hour on the hour.

It’s all part of the Polar Plunge, an annual fundraising event for Special Olympics organizations across the country.

Participants raise funds by participating in a five-kilometer run before diving into freezing cold waters every February.

At Willamette Park in Portland on Saturday, hundreds of divers lined up for their turn to take the plunge, with many teams wearing matching costumes. It was one of six plunges taking place across Oregon, including Bend, Eugene, Medford, Salem and Corvallis.

Emily Rose, vice president of marketing for Special Olympics Oregon, said the event raised more than $300,000 for the organization, which hosts year-round athletic competitions and training for those with intellectual disabilities.

“I know it’s not the most fun thing to jump into freezing cold water, especially when it’s freezing cold outside,” Rose said. “So we really appreciate everyone being here.”

Most participants entered the river only once. Rain was drizzling as outside temperatures hovered in the low 40s. Some dipped their toes in gently, while others belly flopped into the water.

Twenty-five people participated in the Super Plunge, entering the river every hour from 12 p.m. Friday to 11 a.m. Saturday, including well into the night.

Brandon Wilson of Tigard was one of the Super Plungers.

Donning a Superman cape and mask, he raised more than $38,000 and said he was inspired to take up the challenge of the Super Plunge.

“The first hour is great because of the adrenaline rush,” Wilson said. “Once it gets dark out, it gets a little more difficult.”

Ben Fields of Portland also participated in the Super Plunge and regularly participates in competitions hosted by Special Olympics Oregon, including softball and soccer.

“It’s definitely stepping outside your comfort zone, because in the winter, the water is a little bit cold,” Fields said. “I would say that helping the athletes, no matter how cold I may be, feels amazing.”

Special Olympics Oregon is already taking sign-ups for those wanting to join the Super Plunge in 2027.

News Source : https://www.opb.org/article/2026/02/21/hundreds-brave-frigid-temps-jump-into-willamette-for-charity/