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Police among polar plungers raising funds for Special Olympics Utah

Posted at 4:02 PM, Feb 22, 2014
and last updated 2014-02-22 18:02:52-05

SARATOGA SPRINGS, Utah – Two Utah County police departments hosted an annual polar plunge aimed at raising money to help Utah athletes who will compete in the Special Olympics.

The sixth annual Freezin’ for a Reason Polar Plunge was hosted by the Lehi and Saratoga Springs police departments at Pelican Bay Marina in Saratoga Springs.

Uniformed officers were among the more than 300 people who jumped into the frigid water Saturday. Event organizers hoped to raise between $30,000 and $40,000 for the athletes.

Victor Meier is a special events coordinator for Special Olympics Utah, and he said the frigid water couldn’t touch warm hearts.

“Well, they’re not freezing,” he said. “Their skin might be cold, but their hearts are warm, You know? And they get in the hot tub afterwards as well. So they feel pretty good after, and they’re pretty excited about the event and they go home happy.”

Meier said there are various polar plunges that benefit Special Olympics Utah, but he said the plunge in Saratoga Springs is the largest.

The Utah Special Olympics will hold another polar plunge March 8 in Park City. Participants make a donation to take part, which is $40 for students and $50 for adults. Participants pay the first $10 and then can raise funds for the full amount.

Click here for more information regarding Special Olympics Utah.