Special Olympics Polar Plungers were Freezin’ for a Reason

While the air temperature was only 40 degrees this Saturday morning, Nov. 18, the water temperature in Lake George’s Southern Basin was a balmy 51 as more than 1,000 people plunged into the water at Shepard Park Beach. The event, Freezin’ for a Reason, is an annual fundraiser for Special Olympics New York with polar plunges taking place throughout the state.

The scene at Shepard Park was festive. Chas Giknis of Absolute Sound served as Master of Ceremonies, and he provided a continual stream of upbeat music that kept the bathing suit-clad plungers dancing in the park. Many participants sported costumes that added color and comedy to the event. Smaller plunges of high school teams and leading fundraising teams began at 11 a.m. At noon, hundreds more ran into the lake and splashed around for the photographers while spectators cheered them on.

According to Renee Snyder, Vice President of Development for Special Olympics New York, this year’s Lake George Special Olympics polar plunge raised approximately $215,000. Funds raised are used to provide year-round sports training and competitions for individuals in the community with intellectual disabilities.

Special Olympics’ stated mission is to give participants the opportunity to “develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.”

Eunice Kennedy Shriver founded Special Olympics in 1968. The following year, Special Olympics New York was inaugurated and held its first summer games in June 1970, in Rochester. Special Olympics New York has grown to become one of the largest Special Olympics programs in the world, according to the organization’s website.