‘Penguin Plunge’ Benefits Special Olympics Idaho

Dozens of Idaho Falls community members participated in the third annual “Penguin Plunge” on Saturday morning to benefit Special Olympics Idaho.

“The water is 40 degrees; we already checked it this morning. It’s going to be cold,” said David Ritchie, a Special Olympics athlete.

While the weather outside might not be ideal for jumping into a pool of ice cold water, dozens of people jumped in anyway, all for a good cause. The Penguin Plunge raises money for local Special Olympics athletes and for David Ritchie, better known as “Hoagie” by his teammates.

“It raises money for Special Olympics Idaho and for people like me, an athlete, by raising money to get more people involved,” said Ritchie. “That’s my mission in life, is talking about Special Olympics; I love talking about Special Olympics.”

Ritchie said being on the Rigby Wranglers sports team is his favorite pastime, which is what organizers say keeps the fundraisers going.

“It’s very important. The more the word gets out, the more recognition Special Olympics Idaho gets, the more we can keep building the program and make it successful for our athletes,” said Jake Johnson, Penguin Plunge coordinator.

Johnson is also a Bingham County deputy and says law enforcement across the country partnered with the Special Olympics and in 2011 and raised about $42 million for the program.

“A little piece of Idaho goes worldwide, but all the money raised here today stays right here in Idaho,” said Johnson.

The 2012 Penguin Plunge raised a little over $3,500 for Special Olympics Idaho athletes.