The event took place at Altitude Beach Bar in Fourways, and despite cold, overcast conditions and 5 tons of ice added to the pool, the plungers arrived on mass in all kinds of incredible outfits to take the plunge and show their support for the SOSA National Team.
Now in its 5th year the annual SOSA Polar Plunge has become a signature event for the organisation which every year attracts more and more celebrities, industry players, sports stars and corporates to show their support for athletes living with an intellectual disability.
Dr Mathews Phosa, the Chairperson of Special Olympics South Africa, was there on the day to support all those who plunged and said ‘I am overwhelmed at the number of well-known individuals who came out today to plunge into ice cold water to show their support of not only our National Team, but of an inclusive society for all in South Africa. People living with an intellectual disability in South Africa are marginalised and neglected; it is so important to see powerful young people who have a voice showing their support. Madiba brought this movement to South Africa and I know that today’s event would have made him proud!’
Close to R 150 000 was raised on the day to support the 2021 SOSA National Team who will be competing in the 2023 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Kazan, Russia. Members of the National Team were at the event to take the plunge as well. It was a very special moment for everyone there.
A number of other sponsors supported the success of the event including Altitude Beach, Tutone Communications, Gift of the Givers, Sedgars Sports, Sir Fruit, WD Ice, City Ice, Vision Tactical, Swimma Caps, Kool-a-Chem, Lamborghini Energy Drinks, Dischem Nicolway, Avon, Justin and Inecto.
Although not a sponsor of the event the National Lotteries Commission has also provided a significant contribution to ensuring that the National Team is able to represent South Africa with pride at the World Games.
Those who would still like to support the SOSA 2021 National Team can donate online HERE