Philomath High’s tradition of plunging into the wintertime waters of the Willamette River to raise money and awareness for Special Olympics Oregon athletes is coming up on Saturday at Crystal Lake Sports Park in Corvallis.
The PHS contingent, which includes Jonathan Doig as team captain, will be among those lined up at approximately 11 a.m. (the team registration process begins one hour earlier) at the park’s boat ramp. Those willing to donate to the cause can do so online on the Special Olympics Oregon website’s PHS page. As of mid-morning Wednesday, $1,940 had been raised with the goal set at $2,500.
Philomath’s fundraising efforts benefit the high school’s Unified basketball program.
Dozens of local teams made up of students, law enforcement, gyms, corporate partners and general thrill seekers will sprint into the chilly river waters to show support for their local athletes.
“Corvallis always has a festive atmosphere and the setting is beautiful,” Britt Oase, CEO of Special Olympics Oregon said through a press release. “We’ve had such a fun mix of people who seem to all feed off each other’s energy, whether its students, families, law enforcement, businesses — this is a community that really loves to come together, and we are so lucky to have so many fans in Corvallis.”
The Polar Plunge has been taking place in Corvallis since 2010.
Participants raise money in support of over 5,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities year-round and statewide through life-changing sports, wellness and engagement intended to result in meaningful health benefits and cultures of inclusion.