The Polar Plunge

February 10, 2020 Currents No comments

This year you can celebrate Leap Day with a leap into the ocean on Oak Island, and it’s all for a great cause.

The Brunswick County Special Olympics Polar Plunge is more than just a winter dive into the sea, it promises a day full of fun and information at Oak Island’s Middleton Park and the beach in front of the cabanas from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. on February 29.

“We will have a DJ who will have music and announcements that entire day, said Brunswick County Special Olympics Volunteer Coordinator and Polar Plunge Director Wes Juda. “Along the perimeter of the park we will have between 10-16 tents set up. They will primarily include healthcare providers and service organizations, that will be giving out free healthcare screenings or information that can benefit the public. In addition, there will be activities such as a line dance, awards for fun costumes and some demonstrations.”

Juda said Oak Island was a natural choice for the event. “We wanted to do our Plunge in the ocean and have a location that was central to the population in the county. Oak Island was perfect and the director for Oak Island Parks and Recreation Rebecca Squires was very supportive,” he said.

The Plunge itself can be anything from a toe dip to a full-body splash-down into the surf, and dogs are welcomed and encouraged to join in! Heated tents will be provided on the beach for participants to change before and after their plunge.

Though registration for the Plunge that includes an event t-shirt closed at the end of January, festival goers will still be able to participate. “People can donate at the event and we will also be doing a 50/50 raffle run by the Knights of Columbus for a chance to win some dollars,” Juda said.

“This is not just about fundraising,” he added. “It is also a community service event to help people find services to help their families. In addition it will raise awareness for Special Olympics and what a great program it is for people with disabilities. It gives them a chance to compete, make new friends and have a social life.”