First Annual Polar Plunge Held at Tobay Beach By Ashley Ioveno and Seren Jones Brave souls with

warm hearts hopped, skipped and jumped into the chilly waters of Tobay Beach in order to raise funds for the athletes of Special Olympics New York, on March 29. The first annual Polar Plunge of Tobay Beach turned out to be a success, with around 400 participants freezin for a reason. Spectators, participants and fans raised over $18,000 for the 46-year-old organization, which has over 60,000 athletes competing and training in 22 Olympic-style sports year round. The funds will give the athletes - who suffer from intellectual disabilities - continuing opportunities to play sports at no cost to them or their families. Special Olympics has faithfully carried out its noble mission and now has more than 32 individual and team sports...Their philosophy is Win or lose, the goal is always to be brave in the attempt! announced Oyster Bay Town Supervisor, John Venditto. Each year, Special Olympic Polar Plunges are held throughout the nation to attract thousands of people to engage in the fundraiser. Last year, more than 6000 plungers and 15,000 spectators were part of the Plunge Season, raising nearly $1 million statewide and promoting the awareness of people diagnosed with intellectual disabilities living in New York. The importance of sport is invaluable and it plays a pivotal role in the makeup of both children and young adults. Sport is responsible for friendships and learning, as well as the formation of motivation and accomplishment. Special Olympics changes lives through the joys of sports and the Town of Oyster Bay is proud to partner with this outstanding organization to help make this event a success, said Venditto.