Polar Plunge, making a splash for Special Olympics
Two girls participate in the 2023 Bonners Ferry Polar Plunge Freezin' for a Reason for the South Boundary Fore Protection District.
(Photo by Emily Bonsant)
BONNERS FERRY — On April Fools' Day, folks and fools alike came out to plunge into the Kootenai River in support of Special Olympics Idaho, raising more than $2,000.
On Saturday, April 1, every season made an appearance, from rain, hail to even a moment of spring sunshine. The river was very low with many lifelong Boundary County residents noting there were dry spots in the river they’d never seen before.
Plungers who donated or raised at least $75 for Special Olympics dove into the 40-degree water.
Some wore costumes, from a polar bear to a duck costume, while others dove in their skivvies. Alongside for safety measures were Search and Rescue and Boundary County Sheriff's officials who were present in the water as divers, rescuers on personal watercraft, the Boundary County Sheriff's Marine vessel and on shore.
The Boundary County Chaplains Corps provided a warming tent and Helping Hands of Naples provided refreshments.
John Beck, coach of the Bonners Ferry Special Olympics team, took part for his second time. He said he greatly appreciated the support for Special Olympics and was glad to be out and participate in the polar plunge.
Beck won the team spirit award. Best costume went to Caran Williams, who showed up in a duck costume.
Best plunge, went to Nick from Alaska, who boldly cannonballed into the frigid water.
Runners up for team spirit was the South Boundary Fire Protection team.
The top donor team was The Z Team, raising $1,100. Stryder Zalabak did the plunging honors for the team.
Julie Weible won the 50-50 raffle.
The Bonners Ferry Polar Plunge Freezin' for a Reason was canceled the past two years due to COVID-19. In the past, the plunge had 50 to 70 participants and larger community turnout. Considering the weather, officials were happy with the turnout, even though less than 10 people participated in the plunge, several dozen came out in support.
Special Olympic participants must have a physical or intellectual disability and be 11 or older. If you need more information about Special Olympics activities in the Bonners Ferry area, please contact coach John Beck at jdbeck555@gmail.com or Laura Lee at randyandlauralee@gmail.com.
For more information on Special Olympics Idaho, go online to www.specialolympics.org/programs/united-states/idaho.