Record-Breaking Polar Plunge Raises Over $31,000 for Special Olympics in Union City

The 15th annual event saw over 70 participants dive into cold water to support local athletes.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The 15th annual Upper West Tennessee Polar Plunge in Union City was a record-breaking success, raising over $31,000 for Special Olympics. Over 70 participants braved the cold water at Aloha Pools and Spas to support the cause, far exceeding the $20,000 goal. The Top Individual Fundraiser was Emma Blanton, who collected over $11,500, while the Top Fundraising Team was the UT Martin Health and Human Performance Department with over $2,680 raised.

Why it matters

The Polar Plunge is a crucial annual fundraiser that supports the training, competition, and health programs for over 400 Special Olympics athletes across five counties in West Tennessee. The record-breaking turnout and donations demonstrate the community's strong commitment to supporting these local athletes.

The details

The 15th annual Upper West Tennessee Polar Plunge took place this past Saturday at Aloha Pools and Spas in Union City. Over 70 participants braved the cold water to take the plunge and help raise money for Special Olympics. The event far exceeded its $20,000 fundraising goal, with a total of just over $31,000 collected through the generosity of students, business leaders, and community members.

  • The 15th annual Upper West Tennessee Polar Plunge took place this past Saturday (February 8, 2026).
  • The event raised a total of just over $31,000, far surpassing the $20,000 goal.

The players

Dr. Clinton Smith

The Upper West Tennessee Special Olympics Director, who announced the record-breaking fundraising total.

Emma Blanton

The Top Individual Fundraiser, who collected over $11,500 for the event.

UT Martin Health and Human Performance Department

The Top Fundraising Team, which raised over $2,680 for the Polar Plunge.

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What they’re saying

“The support from the area shattered the goal set for this event.”

— Dr. Clinton Smith, Upper West Tennessee Special Olympics Director (thunderboltradio.com)

What’s next

The funds raised will now help support the training, competition and health programs for more than 400 Special Olympics athletes across Weakley, Obion, Henry, Lake and Carroll County.

The takeaway

The record-breaking success of the 15th annual Upper West Tennessee Polar Plunge demonstrates the strong community support for Special Olympics athletes in the region. The outpouring of donations and participation will have a significant impact on the training, competition, and health programs for local athletes.