By Julia Beauregard
Hometown Weekly Editor
The Walpole Police Department and Sherborn Police Department teamed up on Saturday, January 11 for their first ever Polar Plunge. The event took place at Farm Pond in Sherborn where participants were expected to run into the freezing cold waters in order to raise money for Special Olympics Massachusetts (SOM).
That Saturday morning brought an unexpected snowfall, but thanks to the efforts of the Sherborn Highway Department, the event was able to proceed as planned. Before the event, the Sherborn Fire Department braved the snowy conditions to cut through the ice covering Farm Pond, creating a strip of open water for participants to run into.
Over 81 plungers, spanning across nine teams and various individuals, ventured out on this snowy morning to participate. Thanks to their efforts as well as the efforts of the various donors, this first ever co-hosted Polar Plunge was a success: the two departments were able to raise over $22,000, exceeding their original goal of $20,000.
Before the event began, the members of the Polar Plunge team gave out awards to some of the donors. Justin Devaney was awarded a plaque for being the top individual donor, the Walpole Police Department was awarded for being the top team of donors, and the Holbrook Regional Communications team was awarded for being the most festive team, as the group dressed up in Valentine's Day themed attire.
Special Olympics athlete Jordan Robie of Natick ventured out to thank the various donors for their support, as these donations would help to support over 17,000 special olympics athletes, such as herself, as these donations make it possible to provide year-round sports training and competitions.
With the music cranked loud and the snow falling to the ground, the various teams and individuals began their plunge, heading straight into the water to brave the freezing cold temperatures. The teams included: The Frozen Four, Da Bears, Dedham Clipper Masters, Reach for the Stars, Holbrook Regional Communications, The Dover-Sherborn Swim and Dive Team, then finally, Norwood Police Department, Sherborn Police Department, and Walpole Police Department. Everyone cheered and clapped as each participant made their way into the water.
As the event came to a close, the energy and camaraderie among participants, organizers, and spectators were undeniable. The first-ever co-hosted Polar Plunge proved to be a heartwarming success despite the freezing temperatures and snowy conditions. Together, the Walpole and Sherborn Police Departments, along with their teams, donors, and supporters, demonstrated the power of community and generosity, all while raising vital funds for Special Olympics Massachusetts.
