Special Olympics Polar Plunge Is March 15

 HARWICH – The chilly waters of Nantucket Sound off Red River Beach will play host to the fifth annual Polar Plunge for the Special Olympics of Massachusetts on Saturday, March 15. The event is sponsored by the Harwich Police Department and raises funds to support the Special Olympics annual operating budget.
Last year the event raised more than $51,000. Police Chief Kevin Considine, the Barnstable County representative to the Special Olympics of Massachusetts, said the goal this year is to raise $55,000. 
 “We’re here to support Special Olympics athletes, but it has become a community event,” said Considine. “It has turned into more than I expected. It’s such a great event for these athletes.”
 Last year 175 participants dove into Nantucket Sound, where water temperatures hovered around 42 degrees. Adding in spectators, more than 250 people came out to support the Special Olympics. Among participants were recruits from the Falmouth Police Academy, officers from several police departments across the Cape and support groups formed for the event. 
Individuals are welcome to participate, said Considine. Awards will be given to the top fundraising individual, top fundraising team and other participants, he said.
 “The Polar Plunge is about more than just a good time,” said Considine. “By fundraising $100 or more, you are empowering over 14,000 Special Olympic athletes in Massachusetts to train and compete in the sports they love, sponsoring lifelong friendships and competitive spirits, and celebrating inclusion for individuals with intellectual disabilities on and off the playing field.” 
 Registration starts at 10 a.m. and the plunge will take place at 11 a.m. at the east side of the Red River Beach parking lot.