Plunge at the Park Makes a Big Splash for Special Olympics CT

On a cold 36 degree Saturday morning, families, friends, and businesses of the greater Monroe area turned out for the Monroe Police Department’s 8thannual penguin Plunge at the Park. A cloudy morning could not keep over 100 brave and loyal penguins from diving into the chilly water of Great Hollow Lake. Monroe's police, fire and EMS personnel and Special Olympics Connecticut co-sponsored this year's 8th annual event to raise over $40,000 in funds for the state's athletes with special needs. Those who raised money through sponsors, but did not brave the water, had the option of purchasing and wearing a unique yellow "I Chickened Out" T-shirt to show their support.

Sgt. Pete Howard successfully led police in organizing the event once again this year and was excited to see over 100 penguins take the plunge in addition to those who did not plunge. Each year the plunge generates more and more support, which could be seen with the passion in the participants. Monroe Police Department also gave an informative and entertaining K-9 demonstration, in which Officer McAulay and K-9 Murphy, the German shepherd, performed everything from simple obedience exercises, to finding hidden narcotics, and even apprehending a “criminal”- a fellow officer in a Kevlar suit- much to the crowd’s delight.

At one o'clock at the sound of the cannon, a crowd of people clothed in bathing suits and costumes, ran into the water, before immediately splashing around as they scrambled back to the beach to wrap themselves up in the warmth of their towels. Families and friends excitedly cheered on the courageous plungers, which included participants from Stepney Elementary School, the Masuk High School Football Team, and Bethel’s Ability Beyond. Meanwhile, a drone from Hello Me Films flew overhead, capturing the excitement of the day.

Since 2010, Pete Carroll of IBEW and the Monroe Rotary Club have been major sponsors of the event, and they have truly helped to raise awareness for the cause and to make the event such a success each year. Many businesses graciously donated monetary contributions, food and beverages, services and family-friendly items for the participant awards. Spectators enjoyed music provided by DJ Johnny Jay and watching an egg toss on the beach. Plungers received unique one-of-a-kind “Plunge at the Park” wristbands. Everyone enjoyed coffee and hot chocolate from Dunkin’ Donuts, chicken soup from Soup Thyme, hot dogs, pasta, pizza, and baked goods. Prizes were awarded for largest team, top donor, most donors, winner of the egg toss, child with the most Plunge spirit, and more.

More information and photos are available on the “Monroe Plunge Connecticut” Facebook page, Twitter page @CTPolarPlunge and Instagram @CTPolarPlunge. Check out this video of the event from Hello Me Films: https://bit.ly/2EvevE5.