Polar Plunge event held in West Fargo

WEST FARGO, N.D. (Valley News Live) – The Polar Plunge event kicked off at The Lights in the Essentia Health Plaza on Saturday, March 29th.

153 people signed up to make a splash in what contributes to the fundraising effort for Special Olympics North Dakota.

“This is the biggest plunge we’ve ever had so far. The support for our Special Olympics athletes is just overwhelming,” said Renee Dufner, law enforcement Torch Run manager for Special Olympics North Dakota.

Plungers raise a minimum of $100 to jump into icy water.

The Polar Plunge is a fundraising effort through the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics.

Law enforcement agencies came to judge the contests, including the North Dakota Highway Patrol, Cass County Sheriff’s Department, Fargo Police Department, and West Fargo Police Department.

Captain Matt Christensen of the Fargo Police Department participated in being a judge for the first time.

“I get to do some fun judging for different contests for costumes and belly flops, so I’m just looking forward to seeing everyone come out and raise money for a good cause,” said Christensen.

A handful of contests were in store for plungers at the event, including the Best Belly Flop, Best Costume, and Most Money Raised by an Individual.

Plungers that raise $500 will receive a Polar Plunge gift and polar plunge towel.

Registration to participate in the plunge began at 12:00 p.m.

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