American Pool helps with Special Olympics D.C Polar Bear Plunge

American Pool helps with Special Olympics D.C Polar Bear Plunge

When winter’s low temperatures arrive, pool management closes down outdoor sites, and patrons move to the warmth of indoor facilities. However, a polar bear plunge give swimmers a chance to embrace the cold weather and experience an outdoor pool despite the colder temperatures.

Special Olympics D.C. in Washington, D.C., will be hosting a polar bear plunge on Saturday, February 8. The organization worked with American Pool Maryland, which donated time and consultation to event organizers. The full-service pool company provided information on how to maintain an outdoor pool in cold weather, according to Mike Bovino, the vice president of development for Special Olympics D.C., who pointed out that the pool experts also offered further resources.

“I spoke with Marty Gates, who is the Vice President of Construction Services for American Pools. He was extremely helpful and provided me with excellent insights on considerations when filling an above-ground pool in freezing temperatures. He also took the time to provide me with a list of water hauling companies. I am very appreciative for the knowledge Marty shared and questions he answered in a kind manner.”

Maintaining an outdoor pool in low temperatures is a challenge, as pool maintenance services know. Operating one for an event is even more difficult, and the professionals at American Pool Maryland were glad to assist Special Olympics D.C. with this great fundraiser.

“Mr. Bovino contacted me seeking technical advice on how the cold weather might affect his upcoming Special Olympics Polar Bear Plunge event in D.C. I was happy to give advice and provide information on how they should properly maintain the pool before, during and after the event. I’m hoping my advice will go a long way in making the Polar Bear Plunge a real success,” stated Marty Gates.

Benefiting Special Olympic athletes
The event is being held at the Catholic University of America’s DuFour Athletic Center, and attendees can arrive any time between 11 a.m and 2 p.m. Participants need to raise a minimum of $50 to join in the Plunge. Proceeds support Special Olympics D.C. athletes and give participants and the audience a unique winter activity that won’t be forgotten!

Individuals should encourage friends and family to help raise money for the Special Olympics D.C. cause, which serves more than 1,400 athletes. Participants can set up their personal fundraising page on the organization’s website. Both those who Plunge and their supporters can further show their commitment to the athletes by spreading the word via social media and word-of-mouth. Contributions will be credited to donators.

Taking the Plunge
Jump times will be assigned upon payment, and participants and supporters can enjoy music, food and fun activities while they wait for the big event. When the time arrives, those taking the Plunge can change into their swimwear or costumes. Organizers encourage participants to wear shoes, since the ground outside the pool will be cold. Then, they will be taken to the four-foot high pool platform and await the announcements of their names before jumping in as the audience cheers and music plays.

As soon as participants exit the pool, they can return to the warmth of the DuFour Center, where they can change and enjoy indoor activities – or head back outside to cheer on others taking the Plunge.

Polar Bear Plunges are a popular and novel way to enjoy winter. What better way to do so than with Special Olympics D.C.? Not only will everybody have an unforgettable time that will give participants and supporters plenty to talk discuss, money will also be raised for the hardworking athletes.