Special Olympics Florida set the stage for this year’s Polar Plunge charity benefit by showcasing figure skating athletes at the opening of Adventure Landing’s WinterFEST on Friday, Nov. 22.
The performances featured two Special Olympics athletes, 37-year-old Becky Lohr and 12-year-old Maya Adache. Each performed their own routine at WinterFEST’s annual outdoor ice-skating rink. The event was aimed at welcoming the opening night of WinterFEST while raising awareness for this year’s Polar Plunge event.
Each year, Adventure Landing transforms its outdoor waterpark into a winter wonderland, complete with alpine slides, winter scenery, a Santa’s workshop and Christmas lighting. On Saturday, Dec. 7 from noon to 3 p.m., the park invites the community to participate in the Jacksonville Polar Plunge charity event, which raises funds for Special Olympics athletes.
“We are happy to showcase the abilities of Special Olympics Florida ice skaters at WinterFEST’s opening night,” said Jessica Ray, development director for Special Olympics Florida. “When our supporters plunge into the wave pool on Dec. 7, they get to enjoy the winter wonderland at Adventure Landing. The more money that Plungers raise, the more activities they get to enjoy onsite post-Plunge. We are so happy to have a wonderful partner in Adventure Landing.”
Participants consist of athletes and friends and family of the Florida Special Olympics who “take the plunge” toward funding uniforms, travel expenses and accommodation for Special Olympics Athletes. The community is invited to watch while enjoying food, refreshments and entertainment during the event, which supports the mission of Special Olympics Florida.
2019’s Jacksonville Polar Plunge will take place Saturday, Dec. 7 from noon to 3 p.m. at Adventure Landing. For more information about the event or to donate, visit specialolympicsflorida.org.
