You can register now for the 7th Annual Polar Plunge Feb. 2 | Community Spirit

(KFVS) - The 7th Annual Polar Plunge will take place February 2.

Brave men and women from around the area will don costumes and swimwear and take “polar” dips into Lake Boutin. Their Reason for Freezin’ is the athletes of Special Olympics Missouri. All proceeds from this year’s event will benefit training and competition for the 1,100 Special Olympics Missouri athletes here in the Southeast Area.    

The Polar Plunge is open to anyone 10 years or older who is a fan of having a good time for a good cause. The event is hosted by Cape Girardeau Police Department and will take place at the Lake Boutin, 429 Moccasin Springs, Jackson, Mo. Day-of registration begins at noon and the Plunge starts at 2 p.m. 

According to Special Olympics Missouri, in 2012, Polar Plungers raised $55,600 for athletes. Each participant must raise a minimum of $75 to participate and can earn incentives by reaching fundraising goals. This year’s goal is $65,766, and organizers hope to break the million-dollar mark across the state with 13 events.

Costumes are highly encouraged. Awards will be given in the following categories: Top Fundraisers, Top Law Enforcement Fundraiser, Top Fundraising Group and Top Fundraising School. No wet suits are allowed and shoes are required.

The easiest and most efficient way to register is online at www.somo.org/plunge. Participants may also pick up paper registration forms at the SOMO Southeast Area Office, 1625 North Kingshighway, Cape Girardea, Mo.

All plunging participants will receive an official Polar Plunge commemorative shirt, bragging rights for freezing your fur off and free admission to the Post Plunge Party at Isle Cape Girardeau Casino Banquet Room.

Polar Plunge sponsors include American Family Insurance, Noranda, Banterra Bank and Ameren Missouri.  Other participating Law Enforcement agencies include: Cape Girardeau Police Department and Fredericktown Police Department.    

For more information about the Polar Plunge, please contact Penny Williams, Southeast Area Management Team, at 573-339-6733 or email williams@somo.org.

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