Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino invites residents to be “Freezin’ for a Reason” at a polar plunge benefitting the Special Olympics New York on Saturday, March 13, 2021 at TOBAY Beach. The event, which will include an extensive list of new COVID-19 safety protocols, will feature pre-assigned time slots beginning at 9:30 a.m.
“Many of our residents are used to seeing beautiful TOBAY Beach in the middle of the summer, but this event provides an enjoyable and charitable reason to begin the beach season early,” said Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “Participants will have an opportunity to prove their mettle and their compassion by wading into the chilly waters of TOBAY Beach to raise funds for the athletes of Special Olympics New York.”
The safety of participants is of the highest priority for both Special Olympics and the Town of Oyster Bay. This year’s plunge will include comprehensive safety measures that will comply with federal and state guidelines. Instead of large groups, each team will have a personalized polar plunge experience in a controlled safe environment. All spectators and volunteers will be required to wear masks and plungers will wear masks until plunge time. Signage and announcements will also serve as a reminder to maintain social distance and adhere to all safety protocols.
All funds raised at the event support Special Olympics New York’s programs and promote awareness of people living with intellectual disabilities in New York. Proceeds will help to provide year-round sports training and competition in over 22 Olympic-style sports for more than 66,835 children and adults with intellectual disabilities living in New York, giving them continuing opportunities at no cost to them or their families.
“This polar plunge is sure to create lasting memories for all participants and support a very worthwhile cause,” added Supervisor Saladino. “Special Olympics New York changes lives through the joy of sports and the Town of Oyster Bay is proud to partner with this outstanding organization to help make this event a success. Please join with me in braving the chilly waters for a great reason.”
To register your team and invite family and friends, visit www.polarplungeNY.org/tobay. For more information, call Casey Maloney at (631) 458-4078 or e-mail to cmmaloney@nyso.org.