Out of the Cold
A pool of wintry water awaits the brave this weekend at the 2024 Polar Plunge for Special Olympics Ohio and Special Olympics Kentucky. The event is ag The Banks in downtown Cincinnati Saturday, January 27. Hundreds of plungers will throw caution to the wind and take an icy dip in an 18’ x 9’ x 52” pool to raise funds to support programs for athletes from both states.
Polar Plunges will be held in locations across the country from January through March, all to benefit Special Olympics. The Greater Cincinnati Polar Plunge is the only one in the country that is a joint fundraiser between two states. Participants are invited to either take part in-person or virtually with their teams in support of the 31,000 Special Olympics athletes throughout the area.
“These dollars help to cover the cost of transportation, new uniforms, upgraded equipment, and fees associated with regional and state events, said Alison Bloomer, director of development, Southwest Region of Special Olympics Ohio. “The transformative power of sports to instill confidence, improve health and inspire a sense of competition is at the core of what Special Olympics does. The funds raised through the Polar Plunge makes it possible for our athletes to experience real sports, real competition, and real achievements.”
The plunge itself is the main event, but the costume contest is a crowd favorite. There’s also music, coffee trucks, and yes, warming tents for plungers.
Mascots from the Cincinnati Reds, FC Cincinnati, Cincinnati Bengals, Cincinnati Cyclones and Flying Pig Marathon will be on-hand to encourage participants to jump in.
Photos: Shae Huth
“The Special Olympics athlete oath is, ‘Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt,’” said Bloomer. “Taking an icy plunge certainly requires a great deal of bravery, so the Polar Plunge is highlighting the importance of inclusion by creating a challenge that anyone can do.”
Warming up will be easy at the Official Post Plunge Party at The Stretch. Specials include a Hot Spiked Cider with $1 of each drink donated to Special Olympics.
“The success of the Polar Plunge comes down to how unique it is. Nowhere else will you find an event like this one where you can show your bravery while teaming up with your friends and family to raise funds for a meaningful cause,” Bloomer added,
Can you still sign up? Of course!. And if publicly diving into a frigid pool just isn’t your thing, donations – and crowd support – are always welcome. To learn more or sign up, go to greatercincinnatiplunge.com.