Of course, many lake locals know this means Polar Bear Plungers.

Fundraising registration for the 2011 Polar Bear Plunge has kicked off for next year’s event, set for Feb. 26, 2011.

This annual celebration raises money for Special Olympics Missouri and is often seen as the one time many people will brave the coldness of the winter waters of the Lake of the Ozarks.

Teams and/or individuals may register through the Special Olympics website where he, she or they may create a personal fundraising page to get more donations or to help promote efforts better.

Participants may register as a school group, law enforcement group, team from the community or as an individual to plunge with the best costume(s). The best of these will receive the Golden Plunger award.

Prizes
Prizes have already been set in place for participants who reach fundraising goals up until the plunge.

Early Bear Prize The first 12 plungers to raise $200 by Dec. 1 win a embroidered afghan.

Raise $300 Choice of a travel gift card, music and media pack or a Plunge beach towel

Raise $500 Win a lake area hotel stay

Raise $650 Win a lake area hotel stay plus a round of golf at one of the lake’s golf courses

Raise $1,000 Choice of a Columbia brand Plunge jacket, Men’s/Ladies’ Polar Plunge jacket or Plunge travel backpack

Polar Bear Strut
Polar Bears who would rather run than swim will also have their chance to contribute with the annual 5K run/walk that often precedes the aquatic event.

Race registration starts at 8 a.m. with a 10 a.m. start time. Racers — whether they be runners or walkers — are asked to raise $50 as an entry fee.

Other prizes will be awarded to those who raise $300-$1,000 by the day of the event. There are also awards for the top three finishers (male and female) in each age group; top walker; top male and female finisher, top SOMO athlete and top Law Enforcement Torch Run finisher.

To contribute to the 2011 Polar Bear Plunge, visit them online at http://somo.org.

...Lake Sun Leader