Yumans asked to take polar plunge for a good cause

The Yuma Police Department and the city of Yuma Parks and Recreation Department are inviting area residents to come join Police Chief John Lekan and Deputy Chief Susan Otero and experience the “thrill of the chill” while raising money for a good cause.

The third annual Polar Plunge will be held at 9:30 a.m. March 16 at the Valley Aquatic Center, 4381 W. 18th St. This year's theme is “Halloween in March,” so participants are encouraged to come dressed in their best costumes and get ready to get wet.

“We expect to see a wide variety of costumes,” said Officer Cruz Vidal of the Yuma Police Department. “Everyone is being secretive about their costumes, wanting them to be a surprise.”

The event will be held at the deep end of the aquatic center's Olympic-size swimming pool. And all proceeds from the event will go toward Special Olympics Arizona.

“The money will be used to pay for Special Olympic athletes to attend their competitions around the state,” Vidal said.

Despite the event being called a “polar plunge,” Vidal said participants won't have to worry about hypothermia because this year, unlike years past, they won't be adding ice to the water. She added that organizers still expect the water to be in the 60 to 70 degree range.

“Given temperatures are starting to warm up, we are going to try and keep the water as cool as possible,” Vidal said.

Each plunger must raise a minimum of $25 in order to take the plunge or pay a $25 registration fee. All participants will receive a commemorative 2013 Polar Plunge T-shirt. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and plungers are encouraged to ask friends and family for support with additional pledges.

Vidal said anyone who wants to participate can.

Participants may also register the day of the event. All payments are tax-deductible. Prizes will be awarded to individuals and teams raising the most money and to those plunging in the best costumes.

Please visit http://2013YumaPolarPlunge.kintera.org to register, donate or learn more. For additional information or questions, contact Sergeant Leanne Worthen at the Yuma Police Department, (928) 373-4732.

James Gilbert can be reached at jgilbert@yumasun.com or 539-6854. Find him on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/YSJamesGilbert or on Twitter @YSJamesGilbert.

When:

Saturday, March 16th

Registration begins at 9:00 am

Plunge at 9:30 am

Where:

Valley Aquatics Center

4381 West 18th Street

Why:

Benefit Arizona Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics