The Midwest and Northern parts of the country are breaking cold temperature records but the Maryland State Police has its own record to break–raising even more funds with this year’s Polar Bear Plunge at Sandy Point State Park. The event has been dubbed the “coolest” event and lives up to its name as participants must dive into waters in the 40-degree range. We’ve got the details on this cool event below.
What’s the time and date info?
The plunging commences on Saturday, January 25. Plungers take the dive in waves, at 1 p.m. and then again at 3 p.m. The staggered start is done as there are expected to be an upwards of 15,000 plungers.
What is it? And why do it?
For years, the Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge has been asking brave citizens around the Annapolis area to plunge into the Chesapeake Bay in late January after raising monies in honor of the Special Olympics Maryland. The Special Olympics Maryland provides mentally challenged children and adults with friendly competition and healthy camaraderie via sports events. According to the MSP Plunge Site (linked here), the Special Olympics Maryland is the largest year-round organization that encourages sports for the mentally challenged. The video below, from Kintera.org, provides more info.
What does it take to plunge?
Aside from some serious tough skin, plungers must raise at least $75. As aforementioned, this money goes to the cause, but the more you raise, the better the incentives. A $75 donation will get plungers a sweatshirt and a meal voucher, but better prizes await with better donations. Thus far, plungers have collectively raised nearly $400,000. The goal is 2.5 million.
What’s the plan on plunge day?
Parking must be considered first. To deal with the influx of traffic, the plunge team will provide free Polar Express Shuttles that pick up plungers from Anne Arundel Community College in Arnold, the Navy Stadium in Annapolis, and Kent Island High School in Stevensville. The bus system begins pick-up at 8 a.m. and runs until 5 p.m. To ensure your spot on the bus, you can reserve a bus ticket at plungemd@somd.org.
After you’ve parked your own car and arrived at Sandy Point, you’ll be greeted by entertainment–raffles, music, live sculpting, food, kids’ games, costume contests, etc. This entertainment continues through the evening.
After plunging, head straight for the heated towel areas and then enjoy more entertainment!
The website linked above (and again here) provide plenty of tips for first-time plungers, more detailed parking info, and news about the Special Olympics of Maryland. We wish you the best of luck in raising funds and taking the plunge!
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