The 25th Anniversary of the Polar Plunge presented by the Young Professionals Alzheimer’s Association of Colorado drew a crowd of more than 600 people who turned “purple” on behalf of the Alzheimer’s Association at the Boulder Reservoir. From the smallest cub to the largest full-coated adult, the Polar Bears braved 39 degree water and 29 degree air temperatures to plunge into the icy waters at high noon on January 1, 2008.

Families, teenagers, best friends, teammates, colleagues, and couples -- People came from as far away as Australia and Longmont to brave the chilly temperatures. Under brilliant Colorado skies, “plungers” were seen sporting bikini’s, both men and women, there was a leprechaun, two furry white polar bears, a Viking, two young women who doffed their outer fur to reveal furry white swimsuits, many colored hats and even one blossomed swim cap.

After racing back out of the water, the hot tubs quickly filled up with attendees attempting to thaw out frozen limbs, fingers and toes. Everyone who successfully plunged, and the MC made sure you were appropriately doused, left with a certificate of achievement to prove they were actually at the 2008 YPAAC Polar Plunge to commemorate 25 years of ringing in the New Year in great style and for a great cause.

The day’s proceeds of nearly $9,000 combined with sponsors and sales for a grand total of $15,000 will go to support education, counseling, support groups and the 24 hour Helpline provided by the Alzheimer’s Association of Colorado, as well as to help fund research to find a cure!

Special thanks to Boulder reservoir personnel for chopping all the ice from inside and the steps of the pavilion as well as for breaking through the ice and snow left by Monday’s high winds to clear a path from the shoreline. And, finally to our friends in blue and orange: thanks to Longmont and Boulder Rescue crews and Boulder PD who were on hand for any emergency.  

Special thanks to our sponsors!

Gold Sponsors

Presenting Sponsors

Chipotle
Peaberry Coffee

Supporters