‘Freezin’ for a Reason': 25th Annual Sioux Falls Polar Plunge!
Special Olympics South Dakota invites you to raise money and awareness by taking part in the annual Sioux Falls Polar Plunge to be held at J&L Harley-Davidson in Sioux Falls Friday, April 14. This year’s theme is “Back to the ‘80s.” and everyone is invited to break out their best ‘80s outfits for this Polar Plunge.
On-site registration for the Polar Plunge will take place at J&L Harley-Davidson (2601 W 60th St. N.) beginning at 5:00 PM with the Plunge at 7:30 PM.
'Freezin' for a Reason': 25th Annual Sioux Falls Polar Plunge!
The Polar Plunge directly benefits more than 2,750 Special Olympics athletes throughout South Dakota and plays a vital role in ensuring that an ever-growing number of children and adults with intellectual disabilities continue to benefit from no-cost participation in life-changing sports, health, education, and leadership programs.
The confidence and self-worth these individuals gain by their participation carry over into everything they do, from the classroom to work, from their homes, and into the community. And if you're thinking Special Olympics is just about track events, think again!
Special Olympics activities also include basketball, bowling, swimming, powerlifting, soccer, and equestrian events too, all at no cost to the athletes or their families. This remarkable program is celebrating its 55th Anniversary this year. It was founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver as a way to explore differently-abled children's sports and activity skills.
All Polar Plunge participants are asked to raise a minimum of $100 ($50 for students and Special Olympics athletes) in pledges before taking an icy dip to demonstrate their commitment to the cause, with incentives presented to those who go above and beyond in their fundraising.
Plungers can register as individuals or gather friends, family members, co-workers, or others and register as a team.
You can also register as a "Virtual Plunger" to raise money and then post your Plunge video to social media using #PlungeSD.
Spectators and guests are welcome to watch and join the festivities too. There will be music, two food trucks, and of course - -beer!
There will be awards for best costume and group challenges too. So, dress up, dress down, wear costumes, wigs, hats- -whatever trips your trigger. And, if you're having second thoughts right before you jump into that icy water, imagine the warm smiles, hugs, and thanks of all of the hardworking Special Athletes you're supporting.
Then get ready to be "Freezin' for a Reason"!
If you'd prefer to avoid the "plunge", donate to other teams or just donate and watch in a toasty warm jacket with a cold beer in your hand, knowing that you're doing something wonderful!
The Special Olympics South Dakota 2023 Polar Plunge is presented by the Law Enforcement Torch Run to benefit Special Olympics South Dakota and is sponsored statewide by RPM Companies, J&L Harley-Davidson, South Dakota Pork Council, Midco, and Black Hills Harley-Davidson.
Online registration and more info are available at Special Olympics South Dakota.