Over the last couple of weeks, we have all involuntarily experienced the plunge into extreme freezing temperatures, snow and ice. Well, this Saturday more than 1,300 Polar Bears will voluntarily take the plunge into the Ohio River from the docks below the Brown-Forman amphitheater.
The Biggest Chill in Town requires each volunteer to raise a minimum of $75 dollars for Special Olympics Kentucky, making it the biggest fundraiser of the year. Celebrating its 17th year in Kentucky, the Polar Plunge has raised more than $6.5 million for Special Olympics Kentucky programs. Last year alone, the Polar Plunge raised $240,000 to support the efforts of Special Olympics Kentucky sports, healthy, early childhood and community building programs.
Along with those willing to take a dip into the coldest waters of the year, the event includes a procession of costumed Polar Bears who have a chance to win best group and individual costumes, awarded with the coveted Golden Plunger award. There are also prizes for the largest corporate, school and law enforcement teams and for the top individual fundraiser and top fundraising team. For those who are too chicken to take the plunge, Plunge merchandise can still be earned as money is raised, just while wearing a “Too Chicken to Plunge” T-shirt. The more money raised for Special Olympics Kentucky, the better the prizes. Each participant has a chance to win some Polar Plunge merchandise, the grand prize being a $1,000 AAA Travel Certificate. Now, there’s something to keep your chill about.
If jumping into freezing water in the height of winter is not your thing, then make your way to the downtown location of Texas Roadhouse to watch friends and family “let it go” and take the plunge for a good cause.
Photo courtesy of the Polar Plunge Facebook Page.
