Registration open to take a plunge for Special Olympics
Submitted by Special Olympics Chicago
Registration for the 16th annual Chicago Polar Plunge is now open.
The plunge will take place at North Avenue Beach Sunday, March 6, offering fearless weather warriors the opportunity to dip their toes in the icy waters of Lake Michigan, all for the benefit of the more than 5,000 athletes who compete in the Special Olympics Chicago program.
The 2015 Chicago Polar Plunge raised more than $1.2 million and attracted a record-breaking 4,500 participants. In the past several years, The Chicago Polar Plunge has attracted the participation of celebrities such as "The Tonight Show" host Jimmy Fallon, actor Vince Vaughn, musician Lady Gaga, and the casts of "Chicago Fire" and "Chicago PD."
Funds raised from the Chicago Polar Plunge helps to support the activities and events enjoyed year-round by the hard-working, dedicated athletes of Special Olympics Chicago.
The fun will kick off at 10 a.m. when the first plungers enter the water. Guests can dip their toes or go waist high into the waters of Lake Michigan, individually or with a team. Registration is available by visiting www.chicagopolarplunge.com.
At the Polar Plunge website, plungers will have the opportunity to create their own fundraising page to help jump-start their efforts. Registrants are asked to raise a minimum of $175. Prizes will be awarded to the top three individual fundraisers; best three individual costumes; best team costumes; and largest team.
All participating Plungers will receive free parking at Lincoln Park Zoo, or a free bus for groups of 20 or more; a souvenir T-shirt; warm towel when exiting the water; free photo downloads; and complimentary food at the "Melt Down Party."
The Special Olympics Chicago program is the largest in the State of Illinois, with more than 5,000 athletes who compete and train in 22 sports throughout the year. Special Olympics Chicago has programming in more than 100 Chicago Public Schools throughout the city and in 23 parks through the Chicago Park District.
The Special Olympics Chicago programs that are implemented at the Chicago Public Schools and Chicago Park District are modeled across the country.
The Chicago Polar Plunge is made possible through the support of Special Children's Charities, the Chicago Park District, ComEd, United, Chicago Athletic Clubs, Subway, Splash, NBC5 Chicago, BodyGears, RedBox, and Phil Stefani Signature Restaurants
For more information on the Chicago Polar Plunge benefiting Special Olympics Chicago, call (312) 527-3743, visit www.chicagopolarplunge.com or email polarplunge@sochicago.org.
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