For the City Times

Thousands of Polar Plungers from across the state will be “Freezin’ for a Reason” as they plunge into icy water to raise funds for Special Olympics Wisconsin athletes this February and March.

This weekend is Wisconsin Rapids’ turn at Anchor Bay Bar & Grill, this Saturday.

Participants only need to fundraise $75 to experience this thrilling event. Plungers who raise the minimum will receive the official Polar Plunge long-sleeve shirt. Those raising more can earn additional prizes such as towels, sweatshirts, jackets, etc.

The Polar Plunge is for everyone. Participants can plunge solo, with friends, with a team of coworkers as part of the “Corporate Challenge” or on a student team for “Cool Schools”. Individuals who want to stay on dry land, but still support the cause, can sign up as Too Chicken to Plunge.

Each year, a slew of Special Olympics Wisconsin (SOWI) athletes come out and take the Plunge, and this year is no exception. In Wausau, Adam Domino, SOWI bowler, bocce player and swimmer, will be taking the Plunge for the 17^th time. Last year, Adam raised more than $3,000 for SOWI.

Cole Cleworth, SOWI bowler, skier and runner, will take the Plunge in Wisconsin Rapids. Like Adam, Cole did a tremendous job fundraising in 2015 and was recognized as the second highest fundraiser of the Wisconsin Rapids Plunge raising over $2,000 for SOWI.

“We can’t thank the Rapids and Wausau communities enough for supporting our athletes like Cole and Adam,” said Alyssa Matelski, Regional Director of Development. “There is really something for everyone at the Polar Plunge, from plunging to being too chicken to plunge, to food and live music —  it’s a great day that really shows how amazing and supportive Central Wisconsin is of Special Olympics Wisconsin athletes.”

The Polar Plunge will take place in 14 cities across Wisconsin in 2017. Donations provide year-round programming in sports, health, education, and community building to change the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Registration is open at PlungeWI.org. For more information about Special Olympics Wisconsin, visit SpecialOlympicsWisconsin.org.

Special Olympics Wisconsin is proud to partner with Kwik Trip, Walgreens and the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics.

Anchor Bay is located at 3460 N. Biron Dr. The event will kick off at 10:00 a.m. For more information, please call 715-848-0550.