Take the plunge this wintry weekend to support South Coast athletes with disability

There are just days to go until Special Olympics South Coast hosts its Polar Plunge fundraising event at Corrigans Beach.

On Sunday, August 3, Special Olympics athletes and supporters will brave the icy waters in a special event for a good cause.

The Polar Plunge is part of a worldwide effort, with support from the Law Enforcement Torch Run, to empower athletes with intellectual disabilities and/or autism.

All funds raised will directly benefit athletes in our local community.

Kathy Godwin from Special Olympics South Coast invited the whole community to join in, with several ways in which you can support the cause.

"The Polar Plunge invites everyone to embrace the fun by plunging into the sea at Corrigan's Beach," Ms Godwin said.

"Participants are encouraged to get creative with costumes, and we invite you to challenge friends and colleagues to join in the fun as well!"

You can be part of this special event by registering for the Polar Plunge (as an individual or team), or by purchasing a Polar Pass - if you want to visit the event but aren't game enough to take the plunge.

Participants must be aged 12 or older on the day of the event, and registration is just $25 per person.

Meanwhile, you can also make a direct donation to support the athletes.

To register or donate, click here

"Your involvement will make a real difference in helping our athletes achieve their sporting goals and create lasting connections," Ms Godwin said.

Special Olympics South Coast is part of a global network of volunteers and supporters, dedicated to providing inclusive sports opportunities for individuals from the age of eight with intellectual disabilities and/or autism.

The South Coast Club stretches from Nowra to the Victorian border and offers a wide range of sports, including ten-pin bowling, basketball, swimming, tennis, golf, and bocce.

On Sunday, July 27, Special Olympics South Coast's ten-pin bowling team travelled interstate to compete in an inter-club comp against the Greater Canberra SO club.

Eleven athletes competed, supported by five volunteers.

Bowlers competed against others of similar abilities, so the competition was friendly but fierce!

For example, Jason (whose average score was 155) was able to play against bowlers with averages ranging from 140-175, while Liz, whose average was 58, was able to succeed in the division where averages were between 60 and 75.

"Karen helped me, so I did my best ever score!" Liz enthused.

All athletes came home with ribbons - and many bowled their personal bests on the day.

"I'm so proud of our athletes - they listen to what they learn in training, always try their hardest - and are the most amazing sportspeople you could ever see!" coach Karen Hawke said.

As usual with Special O events, it was a day of friendship, genuine competition, and community participation.

"It's so wonderful to see our club catch up with others outside our community," SO volunteer Rhondda said

"They all get on so well and help each other. Everyone wins."