Pittsburgh, PA – There’s an ironic feeling about being dressed in beachwear, in the middle of winter, but the Pittsburgh Polar Bear Plunge brings out a little craziness in those looking to help benefit the Special Olympics of Pennsylvania (SOPA).
Participants line the shore of the Ohio River side by side with their Plunge Team awaiting the fiercely cold water that waits after they make their dive.
“I can’t believe we’re actually doing this,” Camden Olsen turned and said to her teammates as her breath could be seen in the air.
“I’m already freezing and we haven’t even jumped in the water yet!” responded Frank Sporter, giving his teeth a break from the chattering.
That’s what to expect at the annual Pittsburgh Polar Plunge on the city’s North Shore. Year after year participants gather in the middle of winter to take the plunge into the Ohio River.
“I know a lot of people think we’re nuts, but it’s for a really great cause,” said Alicia White who has participated in the outing for the last four years. White, Olsen, and Sporter have teamed together and like to reminisce on some of the feelings that overtake them as they prepare themselves for the jump each year.
On Saturday, December 6th, SOPA will hold their largest fundraiser of the year on the North Shore next to Heinz Field. Individuals and teams, alongside Special Olympics athletes take the plunge to add to the $1 million that has been raised over the last four years alone. Not as crazy as it sounds, as about 1,800 plungers take part in the plunging activities. Participants plunge as individuals and as organized teams supporting the cause. Sporter vehemently explained, “I’m taking the plunge strictly for the Special Olympics. I know it’s hard to believe, but I don’t do this for fun.”
Each plunger is supported by a sponsor that makes a cash pledge to support SOPA. SOPA offers alternatives to those who are too afraid to take the Plunge, allowing individuals to make a minimum $50 minimum donation to support their friends, family, and co-workers who dare to take the Plunge. “It’s a fantastic way to raise money for the Special Olympics and their athletes,” noted White. Pittsburgh’s Polar Plunge is only one of the seven events that take place statewide in Pennsylvania. A total of 20,000 strong take to the water across the state throughout the winter. “Even though it gets so cold, the vibe makes it so much fun. Everyone is there for a great cause and that makes it so much more enjoyable,” said Olsen.
While the plunge highlights the weekend’s events, SOPA organizes several other activities in conjuncture with the main event. The Friday Night Splash Party at the Hard Rock Café in Station Square brings together friends to enjoy live music, a cash bar, and an extensive auction. “It’s like the pre-party to the main event,” said Nicole Jones of SOPA. Those in attendance will have the opportunity to view the Super Plungers, who not only take one plunge, but 24 over 12 hour period of time. Jones says that the Super Plungers consist of a group of individuals who commit to raising a minimum of $2,500.
The North Shore will be lined with activities for children and adults alike. Plunge Town will have activities and entertainment for people of all ages while they wait for their friends and family’s chance to take a dip in the river. Jones said that there will be plenty to do even if you don’t plan on participating in the plunge, “Live bands, free food, and games for the kids to keep everyone entertained.” More importantly, Plunge Town provides heated tents and blankets to help relieve plungers as they step out of the water and attempt to warm up.
If freezing in the river doesn’t sound appealing, make sure to at least visit the event and take in all the activities. There are other options for helping the cause and the plungers will appreciate all the people that show up to support the cause.
If you can’t make the event, make sure to check out the Polar Plunge website to see how you can help make this year’s event the best and most beneficial yet.
