PMHS Polar Plunge team raises $2,275, adds to goal-breaking NYS campaign for Special Olympics

Pelham Plungers coming together to take a picture before jumping into the shocking temperatures of the Sound.

On Saturday morning, hundreds of New Yorkers participated in the tenth annual Polar Plunge to help raise money for the athletes of Special Olympics New York. 

The event took place at Glen Island Park in New Rochelle. More than 800 family members, friends, teammates, and coworkers fearlessly jumped into the freezing waters of the Long Island Sound.

In a collective effort across the state, participants were successful in raising over $150,000 for Special Olympics athletes. Not only was this a record breaking number for the event, but the raised amount of money was $25,000 over the original goal. The Pelham Plungers represented their town by contributing an impressive $2,275 to the cause, which is more than enough money to fully sponsor several athletes in their seasonal training and competitions.

“It was a super fun event for a great cause,” said Claudia Dodge, a participant and student at PMHS. “It was my first time participating and I’m really glad I got to experience it before graduating. The Pelham team had a great showing and we raised so much money! Hopefully more students can come in the future.”

The massive amount of support that patrons of Special Olympics New York showed on Saturday was greatly appreciated. With such an impressive number of participants this year, the future looks very bright for upcoming Plunges. If you didn’t get the chance to test your willpower in the glacial waters of the Sound,  put it in your calendar for next year, and remember to bring your family and friends!