Polar plunge polar bear with Gala Retail logo

Polar Plunge 2023/24

Get Freezin' for a Reason this December! Special Olympics Ireland has been running the Annual Polar Plunge for 21 years in collaboration with the Law Enforcement Torch Run to raise funds to support our inspiring Special Olympics athletes in communities across the country.

In March 2024, Special Olympics Ireland athletes will take part in the Ireland Winter Games. This is a qualifying event for the Special Olympics World Winter Games which will be held in Turin, Italy in 2025.

We hope you will get behind our athletes to support them and our grassroot programmes by taking part in the Special Olympics Ireland Polar Plunge this December.

We are delighted to have 5 Polar Plunge events happening across the country, in addition to the ever popular virtual Polar Plunge.

With your support and the support of our long-term charity partner, Gala Retail, we know it will be bigger and better than ever!

Ready to take on the challenge?

Special Olympics Ireland is calling on you to take on the Polar Plunge this December and to get Freezin' for a Reason!

The Polar Plunge is open to all, whether you are a swimmer, dipper or just fancy a challenge or a fun festive event.

When are events taking place?

5 events are taking place in December; you can click on the relevant event or virtual challenge to find out more.

Group Sign up

This year we are encouraging groups to take part in this festive challenge to help increase the fun factor and also to help raise more funds for our athletes. If you would like to sign up a group over 5 people we will waive your registration fee and support you with setting up a fundraising page. Once this is done we will send you a festive fundraising pack in the post with Posters, T-shirts, swim hats and other festive items to help make your polar plunge experience even cooler!

How do I sign up?

Click on the link below to register for the event of your choice or virtual challenge.
 

What happens after I sign up?

Once you sign up you’ll receive a registration pack and an invite into “Polar Plunge” Facebook Group.

Everyone who donates or fundraises a minimum of €25 will receive a Polar Plunge T-shirt on the day.

I have a couple more questions, who can I ask?

Feel free to message us at challenges@specialolympics.ie and we will get back to you on any questions you might have.