The New Year’s Day tradition in Blairsville continued as the Polar Plunge was held on the banks of the Conemaugh River.
(The crowd gathers to either go in or watch friends and family head into the Conemaugh at the 2025 Blairsville Polar Plunge. Photo by Josh Widdowson)
The annual event benefitted the Blairsville Parks and Recreation Center and the Blairsville Water Rescue Team with the fire department. Organizers said that around 75 people took part in the plunge. One of the original “Seven Morons” Brandon Cunkleman took part. He said it’s amazing to see how it’s grown through the 18 years.
Like the Cunklemans, Jack Savage of Greensburg made it a family affair. He talked about why he wanted to take the plunge.
After the dip into the frigid waters, participants enjoyed hot chocolate, coffee and doughnuts, and were able to warm up by a bonfire set up near the boat launch.
To watch a video of the polar plunge, click on the player below.
