The plunge was held on Sunday, February 27th on the Boardwalk in Point Pleasant, New Jersey!

There were an estimated 3000 spectators and over 2700 participants. They are estimating close to $600,000 raised in donations for the Special Olympics!

I arrived early and turned in my donations. Thanks to the generous support of my family, friends and coworkers I was able to raise $435 dollars.

Air temperature was 32 degrees, but it was very sunny. Water temperature was 38 degrees. The weather conditions were very similar to my Plunge in December (32 degrees air and 39 degrees ocean), though this time there was not a 5 mile running race beforehand. There was snow on most of the beach, but shoreline was clear.

I positioned myself towards the back of the group to avoid being trampled. It was so loud that it took me a few moments to realize that the Plunge had started. I put down my camera and ran towards to water. I went in to my waist and dove under. The water was so cold that it took my breath away and I forgot most of the things that my contributors had requested that I do such as communicate with whales, recite lines from the Princess Bride movie, make bubbles, etc. I did my best to fulfill their requests.

As I made my way out of the water, I had the thought that it would not take long for my legs to stop working. Once on the beach it took a couple of minute to get to my clothes, have my picture taken and put my clothes back on. There was a hot lunch buffet which I ate with my gloves on while sitting next to a heater. The hot-dogs, hamburgers and hot chocolate warmed me up...

Overall, I am very happy that I took part in the Plunge. I am very appreciative of everyone's support and generosity.

And I am thinking of doing it again next year! Photos are below..