Participants Take the Polar Plunge in Hull for Special Olympics Massachusetts

Hundreds of participants gathered on Saturday, Feb. 22, to participate in the Nantasket Polar Plunge to support Special Olympics Massachusetts. This year, more than 300 participants and 30 teams were involved, demonstrating solidarity for Special Olympics athletes. Many people got into the spirit of the festivities by wearing various costumes, ranging from pirate outfits to bunny costumes, as they braved the frigid water off Nantasket Beach in Hull.

Rep. Joan Meschino, D-Hull, attended the event and highlighted its significance in raising awareness and support for Special Olympics Massachusetts.

“The polar plunge, which helps raise support and awareness for those with intellectual disabilities, is a time that we come together as a town and make it clear what we stand for,” said Meschino in remarks picked up by The Patriot Ledger.

In an email about the event, organizers said, “The Polar Plunge is about more than just a good time. You are empowering over 14,000 Special Olympics athletes in Massachusetts to train and compete in the sports they love, sponsoring lifelong friendships and competitive spirits, and celebrating inclusion for individuals with intellectual disabilities on and off the playing field.”

As of Feb. 25, event organizers were nearing their $220,000 fundraising goal. Final figures were not immediately available as of Thursday, March 6.

Learn more about Special Olympics Massachusetts on the organization's website.