A chilly plunge to benefit local kids

WARWICK, R.I. (WPRI) -- Going to the beach may be far from your mind during the winter months, and taking a dip in the water seems unthinkable. However, taking the plunge into the ocean is on the agenda for many Rhode Islanders this weekend.

Special Olympics Rhode Island is hosting their sixth Torch Run Plunge , and they’re seeking your support.

On Sunday, March 10, hundreds of participants will shed layers of clothing and jump into the water at Goddard Park in Warwick. This chilling plunge will help support the athletes of Special Olympics Rhode Island.

Among the crowd will be “super plunger” Elwood Johnson from the Richmond Police Department. As RI’s first “super plunger”, he will start plunging on Saturday, March 9 at noon and continue to go in the water once every hour until the Torch Run Plunge at noon on Sunday, March 10.

Johnson also serves as co-chair of the Torch Run Plunge Committee, and said that immersing himself during the cold temps is worth it.

“It really is a community event,” he said. “The atmosphere on the beach is exciting. People are trying to give themselves up for something that they know is going to be difficult."

You don't need to plunge in order to take part in this event. For information on how you can support Special Olympics Rhode Island at the Torch Run Plunge, visit their website.