Nearly 1,200 people braved frigid temperatures and the icy waters off of Sand Point Beach last Saturday as part of the annual Polar Plunge in support of Special Olympics Minnesota.

More than $343,000 was raised through the Prior Lake event that day, which represents an all-time community best. In its 18-year history, Prior Lake plungers have brought in cumulative pledges nearing $3.5 million.

“I told our leadership team on Monday morning that it was another record year for the Prior Lake group,” said Molly Egan, Director of Special Events for Special Olympics Minnesota.

The Prior Lake event ranks second only to the Minneapolis plunge which usually draws close to 5,000 participants and runs over a three-day period. This year’s local Polar Plunge drew 100 more participants than what was seen last year, with the largest group coming from Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools. Nearly 140 district employees and teachers signed up to jump and raised $50,000. Another 365 high school students joined them in plunging and securing an additional $70,000 in pledges.

Egan also gave a shout-out to the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community, which has been a consistent sponsor of Special Olympics and the Prior Lake Polar Plunge. Thirty-four staff and community members signed up to jump this year, raising nearly $36,000. She noted the organization supports other Special Olympics projects and fundraisers held throughout the year.

While raising funds for Special Olympics is crucial, Egan said community support is crucial, particularly that received from area law enforcement personnel who ensure that each event is safe for participants. Each of the 30 Polar Plunge events held annually in Minnesota is different, Egan said, but the common element is the community support that is always shown by local businesses, residents and community service organizations.

“There are so many different groups that keep coming back every year to help,” Egan said. “We couldn’t do it without them.”