Wacky Winter Activity Benefits Special Olympics NC
Riverside Park in Spruce Pine is the
site of the 3rd 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.
Click here for
more information
A few of last year's
participants.............




