A team from San Ramon Valley High School, along with Patch editors from Danville, Livermore, Pleasanton, Dublin, Union City and Newark, took the plunge into the chilly ocean on Saturday to raise money for the Special Olympics.
According to Special Olympics officials, $40,450 in funds were raised- with donations still rolling- thanks to the 150 Plungers.
Special Olympics Northern California and Nevada Marketing & Corporate Relations Manager Anna Oleson-Wheeler wrote, via email:
“It was fantastic that the community of Santa Cruz embraced us and the Polar Plunge. There were a number of Special Olympics athletes who plunged as well as unique costumes – both of which are great to see. The Plungers were diligent with their fundraising, and we couldn’t hold Plunges without them. Most importantly, the funds raised directly benefit our athletes – and that’s what it’s all about.”
"Can you believe this?" asked Santa Cruz Mayor Hilary Bryant, stepping out of the 51 degree Monterey Bay, which was its usual mean winter self. Like all these plungers, she spurned the wetsuit Saturday.
"My first volunteer job was working for Special Olympics," she told the crowd. "It's important."
And she plunged above and beyond the call of Mayoral duties.
Find the 2013 Santa Cruz Polar Plunge on Facebook. People can still donate at iPolarPlunge.com.
