Polar Bear Plunge

On Sunday, February 27, 2005, New Jersey Law Enforcement for Special Olympics will host more than 2,700 Polar Bears from all over the Garden State who will eagerly rush into the Atlantic Ocean in support of Special Olympics New Jersey at the 12th Annual Polar Bear Plunge at Jenkinson's Boardwalk.

Plungers, young and younger, in summer suits and costumes, begin registering as early as 8:30 am as NJ101.5 and Big Joe Henry broadcast live. Over 3,000 spectators are expected to gather around the plunge site at noon to watch the simultaneous plunge into the water, which during the 2004 plunge measured a chilly 38 degrees.

This New Jersey Law Enforcement for Special Olympics single-day fundraiser has raised more than 3 million dollars over the past 11 years. Pledges, collected by participants, and donations from sponsors such as the NJ State Policemen's Benevolent Association, Inc., benefit Special Olympics athletes in New Jersey.

"Special Olympics helps people with intellectual disabilities discover and show the world unexpected abilities they have and we support that," comments Berkeley Township Police Officer Jim Smit, Polar Bear Plunge Event Director. The fun does not end with the plunge; the event includes awards and prizes for the most funds raised by an individual and the largest group of plungers.

Special Olympics New Jersey provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in 23 Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, completely free of charge. Currently more than 13,500 athletes from over 400 communities participate in 140 competitive events throughout the state including the four seasonal state finals. For more information about Special Olympics New Jersey, call 609-896-8000, or visit us online at www.sonj.org.

Article continues below

---

advertisement

---

Author: Press Release