EUGENE, Ore. – An estimated 300 brave souls took part in the 2025 Polar Plunge, diving into the icy waters of the Willamette River on a snowy morning that made the event even colder. Participants traveled from across the region to take part in the event, which is a part of a series of plunges held throughout Oregon to raise funds for Special Olympics Oregon.
Shauna Stevens, the manager of the Eugene Polar Plunge, noted that the event is the largest collective fundraising effort for the organization. She mentioned that this year’s water temperature was some of the coldest recorded, dipping to a chilling 38 degrees, a stark difference from the usual 46 to 48 degrees. Despite the frigid conditions, Eugene’s plunge raised an impressive $60,000 to support Special Olympics Oregon.
The event kicked off with a 5K run before participants braved the icy water, many donning wacky and colorful costumes to add some humor to the chilly challenge. KEZI 9 News Reporter Aaron Arellano, who joined the plunge after being invited by a family last year, described his mixed emotions heading into the event. “It’s my first time ever doing this,” Arellano said. “My family’s surprised that I’m doing this, but it’s for a good cause. I wouldn’t miss it for the world, but I kind of wish I did miss it.”
Arellano was part of Team Uncle Fuzzy, a group that has been participating in the plunge for years to honor their late relative, Uncle Fuzzy, who passed away in 2012. Uncle Fuzzy, a former Special Olympian, remains a central inspiration for the team. “Uncle Fuzzy was a very hairy man, and the kids called him Uncle Fuzzy like Chewbacca,” Arellano recalled. “It’s very inspiring. We all have family members we love, and I was honored they invited me to take part.”
This year, members of Kappa Sigma from the University of Oregon made their first appearance at the plunge. For them, the cold waters were just a part of the experience. The large group chose to go shirtless as a show of solidarity for the cause. “It was all worth it to show support for Special Olympics Oregon,” they said, despite the cold.
Among the many teams that participated, The Buffo Boys stood out as the largest individual fundraisers, earning the title of highest donors for the event. Carl Buffo, a member of the team, shared that they had raised over $6,000. “It’s a great organization that helps a lot of kids and adults with special needs,” Buffo said. “We come out here because we know the important work they do.”
As the event wound down, many participants, including Team Uncle Fuzzy, reflected on the freezing waters they had just plunged into. “It feels colder than last year,” one team member commented. “My legs are still numb.”
For all involved, the Polar Plunge was more than just a test of endurance—it was a celebration of community, generosity, and the power of supporting Special Olympics Oregon. Despite the icy conditions, the event’s success in both fundraising and spirit was undeniable.
