Taking the plunge for a good cause
In its fourth edition, the Polar Plunge has become an important event in South Africa to create awareness and support the athletes of the Special Olympics.
Blue skies and fun in the sun was the order of the day on 5 September and all for a good cause.
Supporting Special Olympics South Africa (Sosa), celebrities, media personnel and ambassadors alike took part in the Polar Plunge at Altitude Beach club in Fourways. In its fourth edition, the Polar Plunge has become an important event in South Africa to create awareness and support the athletes of the Special Olympics.
Morningside resident, public relations head and deputy chairperson of Sosa, Melanie Ramjee explained its significance. “Four years ago we thought it would be an excellent way to create awareness about Sosa and its athletes. Because the organisation is self-funded, we need some public funding we thought let’s try it and it worked out. This year has actually been the most successful with over 150 people wanting to get involved. We set a target of 150 and we surpassed it, I was still getting calls today to take part,” she said.
CEO of Special Olympics South Africa, Ancilla Smith said that 200 is the number they are chasing for next year.
To emanate the real thing – like New Yorkers who take part in the Polar Plunge at the Hudson River in America every year – 10 000 tonnes of ice was added to the pool at the club. The plunge is done towards the end of winter.
Ramjee mentioned that this was a cause which spoke to her heart. “I just love the work that they do. I started the Polar Plunge four years ago which is just one of the many successful events they do and it has been growing. Personally, I take part in the polar plunge every year and this year was no different. Exciting exhilarating and rewarding, it’s all for the good of Sosa and its athletes,” she said.
With the funds raised, Sosa will provide food parcels to athletes in need. Each parcel contains 22kg of fruit and vegetables, 10kg of maize meal and 3kg of beans and lentils, enough to feed a family of four. Each plunger committed to contributing R250 towards this.
Supporters are encouraged to donate through their BackaBuddy page.
Sandton Chronicle journalist Aneesa Adams also shared her support by taking the plunge on the Saturday.
