Getting Wet – And Cold – For Special Olympics
Now imagine doing it in the icy water of a mountain lake.
But that’s what several hundred people will be doing on Saturday, March 5, at the Big Bear Polar Bear Plunge. This is just what it sounds like, jumping into frigid (about 35 degrees) Big Bear Lake.
Why do it? Well, for the trill of it yes, but it also benefits Special Olympics. Plus, there’s a party the night before and a festival atmosphere throughout the day.
Afterward, you can go to one of the bars and warm up with schnapps coffee and other warm drinks (the “Shipwreck” at Club Bombay, which is rum mixed with a nut brown ale beer, is PubClub.com recommended).
This year is the 5th annual event. Several people do it as groups in themed costumes.
“Some might think our plungers are insane, but the truth of the matter is they are heroes because they are FREEZIN’ FOR A REASON!” said Special Olympics Southern California Regional Director Abbey Leffler. “Big Bear is the number one fundraising polar plunge for Special Olympics in all of Southern California.”
Those who take the Polar Plunge challenge are asked to raise at least $50 through pledges from family, friends and co-workers. Participants who reach this goal get an official Polar Plunge t-shirt.
Special Olympics supporters who prefer to stay out of the water can register as a “Chicken.” They receive an “I’m too Chicken to Plunge” t-shirt.
Additional prizes are given to people who raise more than $50, and also for those with the most creative costumes.
Activities include a DJ music, a souvenirs stand, vendors, and a raffle drawing with great prizes including four JetBlue round-trip tickets, two Disneyland Park Hopper ticket and overnight stays in Big Bear. There is a free BBQ lunch for participants. Spectators have the option to purchase BBQ lunch tickets.
All this is preceded by a pre-party celebration on Friday night at the Cave in Big Bear Village. The event is free for all plungers and families. Activities include live music, raffles, and hors d’oeuvres.
Big Bear Plunge Location: Carol Morrison East Public Boat Launch, 41911 North Shore Drive.
Registration: Day of the event, 10 a.m. to 12 noon. Opening ceremonies, which includes a torchlight lighting ceremony begins at 11:45 a.m. Plunges into frigid Big Bear Lake directly follow after opening ceremonies. Advance registration can be done by phone at (951) 703-6502 or on-line at: sosc.org/bigbearplunge.
For lodging accommodations call (800) 424-4232., or go to www.bigbear.com.
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