A polar plunge event in Pittsfield, Massachusetts Saturday will benefit the Special Olympics of Massachusetts.
Part of the city’s Law Enforcement Torch Run Program, the event is marking its second year. Organizing Officer Darren Derby says last year 27 people jumped in raising $11,000. Nearly 200 are already signed up this year to take the dip surpassing the $35,000 mark.
“It takes most people longer to stand there and look down at the water and contemplate whether they still want to do it or not,” said Derby.
Day of registration wraps up at 10:30 a.m. before a torch walk leads the plungers out to the hole on Lake Onota. Music and a chili-chowder fest continue till 4 p.m.