PORT JERVIS – Port Jervis’ fifth annual Polar Plunge was carried out in ideal conditions on Saturday morning, according to event organizers and participants. With temperatures near 50-degrees, the elevated river levels – extending on to the beach – had participants walking on sand rather than river rocks this year.
Hosted by Port Jervis Recreation Department, the January 13th event drew individuals, families, friends, and members of local organizations to West End beach for a chilly dip in the Delaware River. The Polar Plunge “Freezin’ for a Reason” event has been hosted each winter by the city’s recreation department. Its goal is to provide an outdoor fun activity while raising funds for Port Jervis Fire Department’s Special Operations Team.
PJFD Firefighter Tim Simmons, who is the first lieutenant of PJFD’s Water Operations Team, has chaired the event with PJ Recreation Director John Faggione annually. Simmons praised those who have participated in any of the annual events.
“We had quite a few new participants, and some who have done this every year,” Simmons said. “We really appreciate the support from everyone involved.”
While some of the participants plunged into the water on their own, many went in as a group or as a family unit. Some braved the water two or three times.
Nine-year-old Skylar Delellas used her birthday money to pay the $25 registration fee on her own, wanting to support the cause. Twelve-year-old Ryder Scott attended on his actual 12th birthday on Saturday. He took the plunge with his nine-year-old brother Ryder and father Sean.
The Scott Family, like others, said they thoroughly enjoyed the experienced, even though the cold-water feelings were admittedly unique.
“It felt like small needles stabbing our legs,” Hunter said. “But it was fun!”
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