Teams participating in the Polar Plunge at Hyrum State Park, Friday, Feb. 25, 2022.
HYRUM — Hundreds turned out Friday afternoon to jump into the frigid waters of Hyrum State Park for the Polar Plunge. The charity event raises money for Utah Special Olympics and returned to northern Utah after a hiatus for several years.
Even with the sun shining, the water temperature was only around 38 degrees. While some stripped to the bare essentials, others dressed in costume to splash into the icy cold water.
Cache County Sheriff’s Deputy Misty Garn organized one of the two dozen or more teams that participated. Her fellow deputies all dressed in costume of the TV sitcom Reno 911.
“Of course we had to have our Terry, who is in all of the episodes,” said Garn. “We had Terry and then a bunch of cops, plus we did the force cell of Sgt. Gates.”
Teams were made up of local businesses, organizations or families. All of the local high schools were also involved. Most of them organizing teams made up of teachers and students that work with kids who have special needs.
As teams began showing up to register, crews used a large chain saw to cut a 30 x 50 ft. hole in the ice near the boat ramp. A bulldozer then cleared out the large chunks of ice, some more than a foot thick.
Garn was glad to see the popular event return. She said it not only is a great way to raise money for Special Olympics but it brings attention to those with disabilities.
“The Special Olympic motto is, ‘Let me win but if I can not win, let me be brave in the attempt.’ So that is what we are doing today, we are being brave in our attempt, even if we don’t win.”
Most jumped in at the far edge of the icy water and quickly made their way toward the boat ramp, where a fire and warm drinks were waiting. Two volunteers from the Cache County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue we’re in the water, wearing dry suits, to make sure everyone was safe during the two hour event.
will@cvradio.com