Farmingville, NY - On Saturday, November 21, the Town of Brookhaven and the Special Olympics of New York will host the 11th Annual “Polar Plunge: Freezin’ for a Reason” at Cedar Beach in Mount Sinai. The annual event raises funds and awareness for Special Olympics New York athletes in the Long Island region. More than 800 plungers braved the chilly water of the Long Island Sound last year to collectively raise over $152,000 for the Special Olympics.
This year, all Polar Plungers must comply with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s social distancing guidelines and New York State Executive Orders to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus. There will be limited capacity and masks must be worn by all participants. Online registration for the Polar Plunge is required prior to the event and there will be no on-site registration. All registrants must raise or surpass the fundraising goal of $150 to participate and to receive the signature Polar Plunge “Freezin’ for a Reason” sweatshirt. For more information, social distancing guidelines or to register online please visit the Brookhaven website. Donations are also welcome and all funds raised help support the cost for athletes to participate in training and competitions.
Supervisor Ed Romaine said, “There’s always a large and enthusiastic turnout for the Polar Plunge and although it will be different this year, I expect a big crowd. I thank all the volunteers, Town employees, police, fire and ambulance staff who work so hard to support the Special Olympics athletes every year.”
Councilwoman Jane Bonner said, “I plunge every year and this one will be no exception. As always, my team has made a commitment to take the plunge and help make a difference in someone’s life. I encourage everyone to join us and support these wonderful athletes.”
“Polar Plunges are some of the most valuable fundraisers our organization hosts each year,” said Special Olympics New York President and CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “They’re an excellent opportunity for people from all over the community to come together and support our athletes. If you join us, you’ll see why so many people return year after year.”
About Special Olympics New York
Special Olympics New York is the largest state chapter in the country, serving more than 68,000 athletes across New York with year-round sports training, athletic competition, and health screenings. The organization also partners with more than 170 schools statewide to offer Unified Sports. All Special Olympics New York programs are offered at no cost to athletes, their families or caregivers and are never charged to participate. It costs $400 to support training and competition for one athlete for one sports season.
For additional information about Special Olympics New York, to learn more about getting involved, or to make a donation, visit Special Olympics NY.