Special Olympics Ireland is calling on Co. Donegal and Co. Derry swimming enthusiasts to get ‘Freezin’ for a Reason’ this February 18 by participating in their ‘coolest’ fundraising event of the year.

Donegal’s Polar Plunge will take place at Rathmullan Strand, Rathmullan from 3pm.

The event was last held in 2019, when crowds of people including families, Special Olympic Athletes, businesses and individuals turned out to take part in this unique fundraising event, bravely plunging into icy cold waters.  

Special Olympics are hoping that this year’s event will be just as popular with potential plungers, so that much needed funds for the organisation and its athletes can be raised.  

Speaking at the launch of the Polar Plunge today, Special Olympics Ireland’s Ulster Region Director, Shaun Cassidy said Special Olympics Ulster are delighted to be able to launch the Polar Plunge this year in Rathmullan.

“Now in its sixth year the Polar Plunge fundraiser is a great community event and this year will be even better than before. Every day, the athletes of Special Olympics Ulster step up to meet the challenges of the sport that they love and do so with a smile. We would encourage everyone to sign up today and take on a fun challenge in support of these inspirational athletes. We would like to thank the Athletes of Little Angels Special School in Letterkenny and Rathmullan House for supporting this launch,”  he said. 

Special Olympics Ireland provides sporting opportunities for nearly 8,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities across over 200 clubs all over Ireland.  

 Those who think they are brave enough to take the Polar Plunge can register at https://www.specialolympics.ie/polar-plunge-rathmullan  

Registration costs just €15 with plungers encouraged to raise an additional €25. Plungers who raise an additional €25 receive a complimentary Polar Plunge t-shirt. 

 To keep up to date with Special Olympics Ulster events and athletes, follow the organisation on Twitter, @SOIreland @SO_Ulster and on Facebook, www.facebook.com/SpecialOlympicsUlster.