Polar Plunge returns with new date

Cocoa, costumes, chilly water and maybe some courage — just a few of the things people will need at this year’s Polar Plunge at Oak Mountain State Park.

Polar Plunge is an annual event that benefits the Alabama Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. Each year, the Special Olympics hosts about 14,000 athletes participating in inclusive sports. While the OMSP Polar Plunge typically takes place in late January, this year the event has been moved to March 4.

“A lot of law enforcement were getting involved in fundraising for Wings of Hope with No Shave November, so we wanted to give people some time between those two big fundraisers,” said Deputy Debbie Sumrall with the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office.

Pre-registration opened in January, and it will cost $25 to register through Feb. 24. From Feb. 25 to March 3, the cost goes up to $35 to register, and day-of registration will be $50.

“We hope the new date and the drop in price is going to boost our plungers,” Sumrall said.

The registration costs goes toward an opportunity to plunge — running into the cold lake — as well as a drink tumbler. T-shirts will also be on sale at the event. Many plungers choose to dress up for the event, and there will be a costume contest prior to the plunge.

“The costume contest is very competitive. I have people who have already started thinking about their costumes, and they are elaborate and impressive,” Sumrall said in early January. 

Spectators can also come to watch the plunge and stay out of the cold with hot cocoa and a large bonfire on the beach.

“It is always fun. It’s hilarious to watch,” Sumrall said. “Even if you don’t want to take the plunge, come out and watch all the crazy people.”

Check-in is at 9 a.m., and the costume contest is at 10 a.m. Sumrall said while there is on-site registration available, they’re hoping to get a majority of people to pre-register for the event.

“It’s all for a great cause,” she said. “This helps us kick our fundraising year off for Special Olympics of Alabama. [The event] directly impacts our athletes here locally and all around the state. It also raises awareness for Special Olympics of Alabama.”

For more information or to register, go to Oak Mountain State Park Polar Plunge for Special Olympics on Facebook.