Dubs dared to take the plunge for charity

HUNDREDS of brave people are expected to support Special Olympics at the Forty Foot this December when the ever popular Polar Plunge returns.

Locals as well as Dubs from surrounding areas are challenged to get ‘Freezin’ for a Reason’ on December 3 by participating in the ‘coolest’ fundraising event of the year.

Dublin’s Polar Plunge will take place at the Forty Foot, Sandycove from 1pm. Last year, hundreds of people including families, sports clubs, businesses and individuals turned out to take part in this unique fundraising event by bravely plunging into the icy cold waters. 

Special Olympics are hoping that this year’s event will be as popular with potential plungers, so that much-needed funds for the organisation and its athletes can be raised. The sports charity is gearing up to send 26 athletes to Austria next March, enabling them to compete in the Special Olympics World Winter Games 2017.

Dublin footballer Dean Rock has already signed up to participate in the event.

“I am really looking forward to participating in the Special Olympics Polar Plunge at the Forty Foot again this year,” Dean said.

“Special Olympics is a very inspirational sporting charity and I am delighted to be involved in it. The event itself is a great day out. I would encourage everyone to get their friends and family involved and participate in their nearest plunge together.”

Separate plunges are also taking place at locations around the country this December. 

Speaking at the launch of the Polar Plunge, Special Olympics Ireland’s Eastern Regional Director, Liz Callery, said: “The Polar Plunge is a freezing but fun event which we hope the people of Dublin and beyond will get behind.

“This special opportunity allows people to take part in a meaningful initiative during the season of good will. We would encourage everyone to sign up today to help raise funds for our inspiring athletes.”

Special Olympics Ireland provides sporting opportunities for over 9,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities across 360 clubs all over Ireland. 

Those who think they are brave enough to take the Polar Plunge can register at www.specialolympics.ie/polarplunge. Registration costs just €15 with plungers asked to raise an additional €35. The full €50 goes directly to supporting athletes with intellectual disabilities in sport and competitions. Plungers who raise more than €50 will also receive a complimentary Polar Plunge t-shirt.

The Polar Plunge is supported by the Law Enforcement Torch Run. 

To keep up to date with Special Olympics Ireland events and Special Olympics athletes follow them on Twitter and on Facebook.