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Special Olympics host annual penguin plunge in Fairfield

Proceeds benefited the more than 10,000 athletes who participate in Special Olympics Connecticut.

Tom Krosnowski

and

Rose Shannon

Apr 6, 2024, 12:50 PM

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Special Olympics Connecticut teamed up with the Fairfield Police Department Saturday for its annual Penguin Plunge fundraiser.

Nearly 100 people dove into Long Island Sound from Jennings Beach, including teams from Fairfield University.

Proceeds benefited the more than 10,000 athletes who participate in Special Olympics Connecticut.

Plungers say Saturday's high winds and a temperature just over 40 degrees didn't deter them.

"The wind has been our nemesis this year for sure at some of our plunges. Honestly, our plungers are tried and true, they come out whether it's raining, windy, snowing at some events," said Amy Zdanowski, special events director for Special Olympics Connecticut.

"We are proud and happy to be offered and asked to help. And again, we've been doing it for years and we'll always be willing to help and support Special Olympics for any event," says Fairfield Police Lt. Michael Paris.

According to Special Olympics, this year's event raised more than $18,000.

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