Riverside Park in Spruce Pine is the site of the 3^rd Annual “Freezin’ For A Reason” Polar Plunge, which benefits Special Olympics North Carolina on Saturday, March 7. Everyone – both individuals and those from groups and organizations - is invited to participate in this wacky winter activity, which raises funds for the more than 38,000 Special Olympics athletes in North Carolina.

As part of this experience, participants obtain agree monetary pledges and then jump into the frigid waters of the Toe River. Those not wanting to participate in the actual plunge are encouraged to support the activity by making pledges to those who dare to take the plunge.

Adding to the wackiness is the annual costume contest. Plungers are encouraged to dress in outrageous costumes when they plunge, and prizes are awarded for the best costume. A minimum of $50 in pledges is necessary to participate. All plungers receive a long-sleeve “Freezin’ For A Reason” Polar Plunge T-shirt and free admission to the after-plunge-party. There are also incentives for those who raise more than the minimum pledge.

The activities at Riverside Park begin with registration at 2:30 p.m. A costume contest is scheduled for 3 p.m. with the plunge starting immediately after the contest. An after-plunge-party starts at 5:30 p.m. at the Pinebridge Inn and Executive Center, located adjacent to Riverside Park. The after-plunge-party includes food, live music, and dancing. Advance tickets are $15 and $20 at the door.

This event is coordinated by the Mountain View Correctional Institution Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics NC Committee. Pre-registration and all pertinent information regarding the Polar Plunge is available from Plunge Coordinator, David Mitchell, at 828-766-2535.

Special Olympics North Carolina provides year-round sports training and competition opportunities for adults and children with intellectual disabilities, giving them opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, and experience joy as they participate in the sharing of gifts and friendship with their own families, their peers, and the community.

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A few of last year's participants.............