The Prince William County Police Department is expressing gratitude to the community after another successful Polar Plunge event, which raised $130,000 for Special Olympics Virginia.
The event, held on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Leesylvania State Park, saw strong participation from local residents, law enforcement personnel, and sponsors. Funds raised during the Polar Plunge will support Special Olympics Virginia, providing athletes with opportunities to compete and receive essential services.
The police department highlighted the role of community members, businesses, and sponsors who contributed by joining teams or making donations. Team PWCPD also took part in the plunge to show their support.
The Polar Plunge is part of a nationwide initiative, with law enforcement agencies across the U.S. and 45 countries backing Special Olympics programs.
The Prince William County Sheriff’s Office, Manassas, and Manassas Park police departments also participated in the event.
Repairs are needed across the entire structure, and park management is working diligently to complete the necessary fixes as quickly as possible.
“Most of the bracing has broken underneath, and the roof portion of the pier also has extensive damage to the pillars holding it up,” said Kenneth Ashdown, Leesylvania State Park Manager. “It is not safe for the pier to be open to the public at this time, and we hope to have this repaired as soon as possible.”
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Press Release from Prince William County:
Are you brave enough to weather the February elements in support of a worthy cause? If so, registration has opened for the 2025 Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics Virginia. This year’s event is at Leesylvania State Park, 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Dr., Woodbridge (22191) on Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025.
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Press release:
Prince William County, VA… Are you brave enough to weather the February elements in support of a worthy cause? If so, registration has opened for the 2025 Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics Virginia. This year’s event is at Leesylvania State Park, 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Dr., Woodbridge (22191) on Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025.
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Ready to chill out for a great cause? Special Olympics Virginia’s annual Polar Plunge events are back, and it’s time to make a splash! Registration is now OPEN for the coolest, most exhilarating event series in the state. Get your swimsuit ready (and maybe some warm towels) because this year's plunges are bigger, bolder and even more fun!
From the icy shores of the Atlantic Ocean to the frigid waters of lakes and pools statewide, thousands of brave participants will jump into freezing waters – all for the incredible athletes of Special Olympics Virginia. Whether you're a first-time plunger or a seasoned veteran, this is your chance to be FREEZIN’ FOR A REASON!
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The woman was in the water while a child stood on the shore and called for help. The caller told 9-1-1 operators the woman was floating out into the river, away from the shoreline. At 2:37 p.m., a fisherman picked up the woman in his boat and brought her to safety.
During the incident, the woman was accompanied by a child on the shore. The child watched as the fisherman rescued the woman from the water.
Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported.
Special Olympics Virginia spokeswoman Holly Claytor shared that the event saw participation from more than 280 plungers alongside approximately 400 spectators. In total, an impressive $140,000 was raised to support the cause.
Although adverse weather conditions prevented the scheduled 5K race, attendees still enjoyed various activities and amenities. A food truck offered sustenance, while Starbucks provided complimentary hot drinks and Wawa supplied snacks. Additionally, numerous exhibitors were present, offering diverse goods and services. Attendees could also indulge in the classic treat of s’mores.
Rosie’s Gaming Emporium emerged as the top partner for the event, demonstrating significant support for Special Olympics Virginia’s mission. Other notable contributors included Toyota of Woodbridge, Trade Reps, and Lightbridge Academy, all of whom made the event a success.
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At Leesylvania State Park in Woodbridge, "Journey back in time on the Lee's Woods Trail to discover hundreds of years of human history. Follow a range or volunteer on this guided hike to learn about the people, places, and events that make Leesylvania State Park unique. Expect a moderate walk of about 2 miles. The trail is not stroller-friendly. Meet at the trailhead for the Lee's Woods Trail. Wear comfortable shoes and don't forget a reusable water bottle! Children's Discovery Hike at 11:30 am and 2:30 pm - Potomac Trail. Families join us on an nature adventure through our most popular trail. We will have binoculars, magnifying glasses, bug catching tools and more gear to help children connect to nature and discovery the fun of being outdoors. "The trail is stroller friendly. Please meet at the visitor center and wear comfortable shoes and and don't forget a reusable water bottle!"
At Widewater State Park in Stafford County, "Begin your new year journey with a Ranger-led hike on Holly Marsh Trail! Starting at the Visitor's Center, a Ranger will talk to your group about the local wildlife and their winter habitats while guiding you through the forest, past wetlands, and down to the Potomac River; and back again! The hike is 1.8 miles round-trip and the trail is easy-going for children and adults. Be sure to dress warmly, wear the appropriate shoes, and don't forget to pack water and snacks. "There are three start times available for this hike: 9:00am, 11:00am, and 1:00pm. Registration is FREE, but space is limited to 15 participants per hike. You can sign up for one of the three hike times here."
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“The Prince William County Police Department is looking for hardy individuals – or teams of family, friends, co-workers, or organizations – willing to brave the cold temperatures on land, and in the water, to help raise money for Special Olympics.”
Prince William Police Department: “Registration has opened for the 2024 Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics Virginia. This year’s event is at Leesylvania State Park, 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Drive, Woodbridge on Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024.”
“The Prince William County Police Department is looking for individuals – or teams of family, friends, co-workers, or organizations– willing to brave the cold temperatures on land, and in the water, to help raise money for Special Olympics.”
Registration is open, and the public can participate in several ways:
- Take the ‘Plunge’ either as an individual or as a team that you put together with friends, neighbors, family or co-workers. Join Team PWCPD and start fundraising.
- Donate funds
- Come out and cheer everyone on.
“There’ll be live music, games, door prizes, food trucks, law enforcement displays and more, including a costume contest and, a plunge into the Potomac River.”
“To register as an individual or as a team for ‘Team PWCPD’ and for more information, please visit the link. This link also has information on donating to Team PWCPD. The Polar Plunge benefits Special Olympics, an organization which is supported by law enforcement officers throughout the United States and in 45 countries.”
