The Polar Bear Plunge held at the Town of Long Lake public beach raised over $4,500 for The Wounded Warrior Project on Saturday, December 27.
The event is offered as a cold, yet fun way to raise money.
Participants sign up as teams or individuals, choosing a donation amount, then plunging into the Long Lake’s icy December waters.
According to the Town of Raquette Lake’s Winter Events Coordinator and first time Plunge participant, Kathryn Forsell, about fifty people braved the frigid challenge.
“With the temperature of the water being thirty-four degrees and the outside temperature being forty degrees, it was a good year to be a first timer,” Forsell said.
“I got out of the water, and said, ‘Whoa… That was a little cold’,” she said.
Forsell said the ice was out far enough that they were able into plunge to open water with no additional cutting.
Those lacking the requisite bravery were still able support the cause by starting a team, no plunge necessary.
In the past two years this event has raised over $10,000 for the Wounded Warrior Project.
Prizes were awarded to the individual and team raising the most money, the best plunge technique, the best plunge costume, and the most original team.
Kathryn Forsell won for most funds raised by an individual with a grand total of $215.
“I do plan on participating next year, and I’m hoping to at least double my amount raised,” she said.