It was in the low 40s when more than 100 participants took part in the annual Polar Plunge at 1 p.m. on Saturday. A total of 105 people signed up and submerged themselves in Cheat Lake — all to raise money for Special Olympics West Virginia.
“It’s certainly a daring, somewhat exciting and some people’s eyes, crazy event,” said CEO of Special Olympics West Virginia John Corbett. “They’re freezin’ for a reason.”
Over $25,000 was raised from the plungers this year.
Janet Scarcelli initially started hosting the Polar Plunge 15 years ago and has participated each year. Scarcelli said the plunge is something she is proud to be a part of.
“Special Olympics have always been my passion project,” Scarcelli said. “I love the organization, I love our athletes — it’s so rewarding to watch an athlete grow through their involvement with any of the events. You see them grow and come out of their shell and learn all kinds of other skills that are important for life.”
Additionally, each year there is a costume contest for participants where they can either sign up individually or as a group.
Scarcelli said the importance of the plunge each year revolves around Special Olympics West Virginia, which is not only helpful to the community economically, but it also brings people together for a good cause.
“The goal is to come out, have a good time, raise money for a fabulous organization and support individuals that really want to achieve,” Scarcelli said.
For Robert Arnold, it was his very first time participating and his motivation to take part in the plunge was one thing: His neighbor Nate Critchfield.
Critchfield has been one of the Special Olympic West Virginia athletes since 2002, with his main passion being track. Recently, Critchfield injured his leg while on a skiing trip with the organization, having him unable to participate in this year’s plunge.
Arnold was inspired by Critchfield and said that participating this year was worthwhile.
“It’s a great cause, and it’s a really rewarding way to give back this way to a great group of people,” Arnold said. “It’s a good example of the community coming together, and everyone supporting something that’s really positive and helps other people.”
Corbett said a majority of the funds raised will go toward their basketball tournament in mid-March at the WVU Student Recreation Center, where around
600 Olympians from across the state participate.
“If people are willing to do this for our organization, then I should be willing to show my appreciation. For them jumping, [I should jump],” Corbett said.
TWEET @DominionPostWV
