Participants to take icy Polar Plunge for Special Olympics at Oak Mountain

The Polar Plunge, an annual event that allows brave souls to jump into frigid lake water to raise money for the Alabama Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics, returns Jan. 26 to Oak Mountain State Park.

The proceeds will go to Special Olympics Alabama, which provides training and competition in various sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

The Plunge begins at 10:15 a.m. and is a lot of fun, according to Ainsley Allison. She is the community relations coordinator for the Pelham Police Department, the event sponsor. “I mean, who wouldn’t want to jump into icy cold water?” Allison said.

Plunge participants can also enjoy a bonfire and drink coffee and hot chocolate, according to Allison.

The event kicks off a new year of fundraising for the Torch Run. In the Special Olympics program, “every person is included, accepted and welcomed regardless of their ability,” Allison said.

Prior to the Plunge at 10 a.m., there will be the annual costume contest — a tradition at similar events around the world, according to Allison. “We’ve seen some pretty extravagant costumes here,” she said.

Last year’s event drew about 100 and participants raised about $15,500, according to Allison.

Registration is $45 the day of the event and $35 in advance. The first 50 registrants will be guaranteed the shirt size of their choice. Entry in the costume contest is $5.

For information and registration, go to pelhampolarplunge.eventbrite.com or Facebook @PelhamPoliceDepartment.

Editor's note: this story was updated on Jan. 16 to announce the rescheduling of the event from Jan. 19 to Jan. 26.