Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Polar Plunge promotes Special Olympics
The 2021 Beaver Lake Polar Plunge for Special Olympics Arkansas is set for Feb. 13 at the Prairie Creek Swim Area in Rogers.
Organizers say the Plunge “is a major fundraiser for our program. We offer 24 polar plunges across the state from January through March; however, the Beaver Lake Polar Plunge is the largest in the state and typically hosts more than 150 polar plungers who raise funds and awareness for our program.”
The group has put in place a covid-19 safety plan that includes mask requirements for all spectators and volunteers, with “plungers” wearing masks until plunge time; social distancing and safety reminder signage; assigned team plunge times, with no more than 50 assigned per time; and hand sanitizer at each registration station.
Those not ready to attend the in-person plunge may participate virtually. The group says participants may decide how they want to “Experience the Thrill of the Chill.” Suggestions include, “Let someone hose you down; take an ice cold shower or bath; water balloon fight (team activity); or run through a sprinkler. Virtual plungers are asked to capture their plunges with up to 60 seconds of video (recorded horizontally) or take a few photos.”
The mission of Special Olympics Arkansas is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for all children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.
Donna Kilmer, field representative, says, “We are currently not offering competition opportunities for our athletes due to covid. Our athletes are encouraged to train within their schools or adult development centers. We are hoping that we can begin smaller group competitions in the spring, while of course following safety protocols. During all of this, we have provided our athletes with many virtual training opportunities, dance parties, and Zoom “hangouts” so they could continue to socialize with their friends who are in other parts of the state.”
Special Olympics Arkansas is divided into 17 areas covering every county throughout the state. Northwest Arkansas is considered Area 3 and covers Benton, Washington and Madison counties.