MUNCIE, Ind. — “Be Bold and Get Cold”. A pledge that athletes and participants live by as they take the Polar Plunge. Partnered with Law Enforcement Torch Run and Coca-Cola, Special Olympics has been holding this event for 26 years, and Muncie is no stranger.
“So in Delaware County, we used to do it out in, for people who are local, out in the water bowl. I've been here when we’ve shoveled 15 inches of snow off the ground and cut a hole in the ice. and we moved it to Ball State to get some more of the students involved, so it's been a great opportunity.” says Special Olympics Delaware County Coordinator, Barb Cox.
In order to plunge, participants must raise at least $99. The more money raised, the more prizes and awards that can be won. All funds raised during polar plunge events help ensure that children and adults with intellectual disabilities can participate in the state’s sports, health, education and leadership programs.
“Special Olympics is important cause like other athletes, they get to be around other people and interact and be able to interact with sports and do things they might have never had the chance to do while they were in school,” explained athlete, Mckenna Riley.
Even though bodies were cold, hearts were warm. The next polar plunge event is Feb. 8 at the health and recreation complex at Butler University.
To get involved visit PolarPlungeIN.org.
Contact Abby Urban with comments at abigail.urban@bsu.edu.
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