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Take Leap For Special Olympics In Westchester Polar Plunge

WESTCHESTER COUNTY, N. Y. -- Special Olympics New York is looking for brave souls willing to take a leap of faith into Long Island Sound for the 8th annual Westchester Polar Plunge.

Westchester Polar Plunge in 2015 raised more than $96,000 for Special Olympics athletes from the Hudson Valley region.

Westchester Polar Plunge in 2015 raised more than $96,000 for Special Olympics athletes from the Hudson Valley region.

Photo Credit: Submitted
More than 600 people took part in the 2015 Westchester Polar Plunge.

More than 600 people took part in the 2015 Westchester Polar Plunge.

Photo Credit: Submitted

This year's event, named Freezin' for a Reason, takes place Nov. 12 at Glen Island Park in New Rochelle. Organizers are hoping to surpass the $99,000 goal for the event.

Last year, more than 600 people took the plunge to raise a record $96,000, organizers said. Money is used to support 3,500 athletes from the Hudson Valley region competing in Special Olympics New York. 

Special Olympics athletes are never charged to participate. More than 67,162 athletes compete year-round in Special Olympics New York's 22 Olympics-style sports. 

Registration for this year's event starts at 10 a.m. and the plunge is at noon. Participants are encouraged to raise money through sponsors, and prizes are awarded for money raised. Those who raise a minimum of $150 get a Polar Plunge sweatshirt.

Participants can work individually or form teams. Those interested can visit the Polar Plunge website for more information and to register.

Those who aren't interested in jumping in cold water can still help with set up, registration and sweatshirt distribution. All volunteers and participants get 10 hours of community service, organizers said.

There will also also be challenge trophies awarded, and a post-party at Dudley's Parkview restaurant and bar in New Rochelle.

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