On behalf of the 1,200 Special Olympics athletes in South Central Wisconsin, I would like to thank the 1,700 brave souls who participated in the Polar Plunge on Feb. 19 in Lake Monona. The water was icy and the temperature chilly, but it didn't stop anyone from \Freezin' for a Reason"" and raising a record $226,000!
The UW-Madison community, including students, faculty and UW police officers, once again came out in full force to support the event. Hundreds braved the cold to take the plunge and others volunteering their time to ensure the event was successful. Additional students showed up at the event to cheer on their friends who took the icy dip.
Several student organizations, including Alpha Sigma Epsilon, Ogg and Kronshage Halls, Association of Women in Agriculture and the UW Triathlon team formed plunge teams with many participants returning to the event from last year. Mu Kappa Tau continued their involvement by not only recruiting plungers from campus, but also hosting a campus-only pre-registration event.
Z104 DJs, including Fish, Dylan and Jesse James, gave the plunge countdown for each group and Bachmann Pools & Spas donated three hot tubs for plungers to warm up in. It was a day of entertainment and fun thanks to the courageous participants and encouraging spectators and volunteers.
Fundraising events like the Polar Plunge make it possible for Special Olympics athletes to achieve their goals on and off the playing field. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of the 2005 Madison Polar Plunge.
