Mary Ann Evans of Smyrna will be among the thousands who plunge into the frigid Atlantic Oceans this weekend to benefit Special Olympics Delaware.
The 2010 Lewes Polar Bear Plunge, set for 1 p.m. sharp on Feb. 7 at Rehoboth Beach, will be Evans’ 15th plunge.
Last year, the event raised over $490,000 for Special Olympics as 2,923 “bears” took a dip in the cold water.
To place a donation in Evans’ name, visit www.firstgiving.com/maevans, or call Special Olympics at (302) 831-4653.
Q&A with Mary Ann Evans of Smyrna
Q: How did you first get involved in the Polar Bear Plunge?
A: I had been aware of Special Olympics Delaware (SODE) for several years because I have a daughter with Down syndrome who has participated in Special Olympics for 20 years. The Plunge always sounded like fun to me! The first year I plunged, they had to postpone it because we had a snowstorm. Back then it was held at Cape Henlopen State Park. The new date was more convenient for me so I plunged and became hooked! Friends of ours went to cheer me on! Greg Raffauf thought it looked like so much fun he now joins me every year!
Q: What does it feel like when you hit the water? Is it a rush, or is it just really cold?
A: I don’t think it is a rush… it is cold, but knowing it will be over quickly helps. The coldest part is the front of your legs as we run out to deeper water so we can dive in! (Not everyone dives under – a lot of people go in just to their knees.)
Q: How do you take the plunge? Do you put your toes in and take it slow, or do you just rush right in? Do you have a particular strategy or approach?
A: Part of our approach is for Greg and I to be near the end of the stream of people that line up on the beach. After they ring the bell to declare “plunge time,” we ask each other “are you ready?” Then we have to worm our way through the crowd of people, both plungers and cheerleaders, and run in far enough so we can dive under! Depending on the tide some years it feels like we are walking in the water for miles! I also carry an orange flag with me because it helps for our supporters to find us in the crowd of people and in the water.
Q: What happens when you get out of the water? How long does it take you to warm up?
A: As soon as we get out, we feel warm. No matter the temperature…the air is warmer than the water. The secret is to have a towel or rug to stand on when you are on the sand. The sand is as cold in winter as it is hot in summer. I always say the colder the day, the better the plunge. Hanging on the beach before the plunge dressed only in a robe and bathing suit helps prepare you for the cold water.
Q: What is it about the Polar Bear Plunge that keeps you coming back each year?
A: People think I am crazy but I LOVE THE PLUNGE! It is my favorite fundraiser that SODE sponsors. Ann Grunert, Executive Director of SODE and her staff do a wonderful job of organizing not only the plunge, but the sports and activities that my daughter participates in. I would encourage anyone to head to Rehoboth Beach on a plunge weekend, even to just watch. From hotel room availability, sign in for weekend activities, radio broadcasting, store discounts, safety issues and a party after the plunge every detail is covered and executed with professional character.
Q: In what sport(s) does your daughter compete in Special Olympics? What does she take away from the experience?
A: My daughter, Leanne, participates in volleyball, bowling, basketball, softball and swimming with the Capitol Dreamcatchers team. In June teams from all over the state spend 1 or 2 nights at the U of D to participate in a variety of sports. She also attends a camp that SODE sponsors every year at Camp Barnes. Being a part of SODE fills many needs in Leanne’s life. She knows there are people supporting her no matter how well or how poorly she finishes. She loves being on a team and she has developed many friendships. She looks forward to many more years with SODE as there is no age limit!
Q: Would you recommend the Polar Bear Plunge to others? Why?
A: Not only would I recommend the Plunge to others, I would dare them to try it…just once! OR at least become a towel holder. My husband says, “it takes a brave person to stand on the beach every year – no matter what the weather – and hold that towel for the Plungers!” If you can’t make it to the plunge a pledge is always welcome. Go to www.firstgiving.com/maevans to donate to me directly or call Special Olympics at 302-831-4653.
