Nearly 100 people brave cold waters in Saginaw for Special Olympics Michigan

SAGINAW TWP, MI -- Nearly 100 people dove into frigid waters Saturday morning, Feb. 17, to raise money for Special Olympics Michigan.

"Just knowing that all the money we've raised is going to a good cause, it's such a good feeling," said Holly Hahn, a four-time participant in the annual polar plunge.

The polar plunge Saturday in the parking lot of G's Pizzeria Bar & Grill on Bay Road in Saginaw Township is one of 28 taking place across the state this winter.

Proceeds from the Michigan Law Enforcement Polar Plunge for Special Olympics Michigan fundraiser help more than 23,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities in Michigan train and compete in sports, according to Special Olympics Michigan.

"We raise funds to pay for these athletes to go to events, their registration, their uniforms," said Joe Bronz, area director of Special Olympics Michigan. "Seeing the smile on these athletes' faces is what it's all about."

So far, Saginaw Polar Plunge 2018 has raised almost $13,000. Donations to plunge teams can be done through the organization's website and are open through May.

Temperatures during the plunge were roughly 32 degrees with a 25-degree wind chill, according to the National Weather Service.

"It was definitely colder than I thought," laughed Pedro Moncada, who took the plunge with four Burt Watson Chevrolet co-workers. "I feels good, though. It's helping the community that helps us."

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