It’s not too late to sign up for Port Jervis’ exciting January 2022 event – the Third Annual Polar Plunge!
This invigorating winter event will take place on January 15, 9.am. (snow date January 22) at West End Beach, 14 Ferry Street. The Polar Plunge provides an exciting opportunity to help support Port Jervis Fire Department’s Water Operations Team (just $25 to register) as well as a fun, outdoor winter event for anyone to enjoy.
Registration may be completed in advance at the event’s information site https://runsignup.com/Race/NY/PortJervis/PortPolarPlunge or in-person on the day of the Plunge.
Participants will take to the water (for however long or brief) at 9 a.m. They will go in groups, and may enter as many times (or as few) as they wish. In previous years, some have submerged and spent time swimming before exiting the river. Others have gone ankle-deep, but been proud to have accomplished their plunge mission. Many have said this was a “bucket list” item, but planned to return to repeat it.
The Polar Plunge has been held annually at Port Jervis’ West End Beach since 2020, and has grown in popularity and participation, a trend organizers hope will continue. The first year there were 64 who took the plunge, and last year 103. So far this year, online registration ages show the youngest as age 14 and oldest 59, but past ranges have ended up being younger and older. All are welcome.
Tim Simmons, a decades-long PJFD firefighter and 1st Lieutenant of Port’s Water Operations Team, will be among the members of his team stationed in gear, in the river. Their training and skill provide everyone an opportunity to do so safely and enjoyably.
Simmons is among those who also look forward to all that the Polar Plunge brings.
“It gives the community an opportunity to come out and support the Special Operations Team and Rec Department while having fun and being together with other people in an open safe environment,” Simmons said.
Co-hosted by PJFD and the Port Jervis Recreation Department since its inception, this year’s event will again provide warming tents on the beach, multiple fire pits, music (provided by Jordan Drew), and a chance to be safely gathered outside. Funds collected will be shared in part with the Recreation Department for funding lifeguard certifications for the summer beach program.
It is suggested to bring water shoes or a spare pair of sneakers to wear into the water, a towel, bath robe, blanket, and dry clothes to warm up with afterwards.
PHOTOS FROM PORT'S POLAR PLUNGE (2021)
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