Does taking a dip into 40 degree water sound like an adrenaline rush?

Special Olympics Colorado (SOCO) is hosting its annual Westerra Credit Union Denver Polar Plunge and 5k race Saturday at Aurora Reservoir.

“The Polar Plunge presented by Murdoch’ is a cold-weather fundraiser aimed at raising $726,000 statewide to provide critical funding for more than 23,000 Special Olympics Colorado athletes,” a spokesperson for the event said in a statement Tuesday.

A Polar Plunge is a very visual, unique event where participants jump into a chilly body of water to raise awareness for the inclusion and acceptance of people with ID (intellectual disabilities), according to the release.

“Polar Plunge is one of SOCO’s most recognizable fundraisers and provides supporters an easy way to raise funds, connect with athletes and re-engage with their communities, all for a great cause,” the statement said.

Participants are encouraged to dress in costume, coordinate themes and bring other creative ideas as well. 

When: Saturday

• 9 a.m. – Registration Opens
• 10 a.m. — 5k Run Begins
• 11 a.m. – Plunge Begins
• 1 p.m. – Event Concludes (or when the last team plunges)

Where:

• Aurora Reservoir, 5800 South Powhaton Road, Aurora, CO

The fundraising minimum to plunge is $80 (students and SOCO athletes are $50), $35 to run or $115 (or $85) to do both.