Polar Plunge At Tobay Beach Goes Virtual Over Coronavirus Concern

MASSAPEQUA, NY — The Polar Plunge at TOBAY Beach on Saturday has been canceled, according to a news release from the Town of Oyster Bay, amid fears of the spread of coronavirus. The event will instead be held virtually.

"The Town and Special Olympics New York are especially disappointed that one of Long Island’s premiere polar plunges won’t be able to take place as it normally does," the release said. "The Polar Plunge is one of Special Olympics New York’s most popular, important, and exciting fundraisers hosted each year, and it is imperative that we show them the full support of the residents of the Town of Oyster Bay as we all become proud members of #PlungeNation!"

Though the in-person event is canceled, officials offer a fun and creative way to keep the plunge alive.

"Participants are encouraged to creatively find ways to join in on the ‘plunge’ such as hopping in an ice bath, taking a cold shower, or having a water balloon fight outdoors, then share the video online using the hashtag #PlungeNation and tagging Special Olympics New York and Polar Plunge NY," the release says.

According to the release, the Polar Plunge helps provide year-round training and competition in over 20 Olympic-style sports to over 66,000 New Yorkers with intellectual disabilities, giving them opportunities at no cost to them or their families.

Follow all the coronavirus updates in New York. Sign up for Patch news alerts and newsletters.

"Donations are also welcome and all funds raised help support the cost for athletes to participate in training and competitions. For more information, please contact Casey Maloney at cmmaloney@nyso.org or 631-458-4078," the release says.