Polar Bears Need Surfers' Support for Southampton Plunge
The Surfrider Foundation has put out a call asking for anyone with a winter wetsuit and surfboard who is comfortable in chilly waters to come support the Human Resources of the Hamptons Polar Bear Plunge tomorrow, Saturday, December 14 at 10 a.m. at Coopers Beach in Southampton. They’re asking for volunteers to help with water safety during the plunge.
Tomorrow’s forecast for the plunge is 25 degrees and snow at 10 a.m., and a “real feel” temperature of… we’re not going to tell you. With the ocean temp almost 15 degrees warmer than the air, perhaps this will be more like a dip in the sauna than an ice bath. “We go on snow or shine,” says Kerry Lewendoski, who will take over for Mary Ann Tupper as the director of Human Resources when Tupper retires next year.
Lewendoski notes that the only thing that would force a cancellation tomorrow is “probably a tsunami.” So get ready, plungers, it’s going to be a cold one. Click here for tips on how to prepare.
Tupper, by the way, says she will continue to plunge after her retirement. Being that it’s for a good cause and all that.
The plunge benefits Human Resources of the Hamptons, with money raised going toward their food pantry, which feeds some 350 local families. The organization is hoping to top last year’s total of $77,000 (411 plungers) with a proposed goal of $100,000.
Representatives of the United States Marine Corps will be plunging for this year’s 10th anniversary event and, along with any surfers who volunteer to help, Southampton, Hampton Bays and North Sea firefighters, the Southampton and Southampton Village Ambulance volunteers and EMTs, and the Southampton Village Police will all be on hand to keep participants safe in the frigid waters.
Plungers must either give or get a minimum of $25. If you collect at least $25 from sponsors, your registration is free. If you don’t get any donations, you’ll pay a $25 registration fee to plunge. All plungers receive a free Polar Bear Plunge 2013 hat. Arrive before 9:30 a.m. to register tomorrow; the plunge is at 10 a.m. sharp. Visit hrhamptons.org for more info.
The Surfrider Foundation’s mission is the protection and enjoyment of oceans, waves and beaches through their powerful activist network. Learn more at surfrider.org.