By Renée Quinn, Community Relations Director
What began as a get-to-know-you event between the Morgan Family Y and the (at the time) new Tacoma Center Y’s early morning class has since turned into an annual plunge into the cold waters of Puget Sound.
The first Plunge consisted of the two morning classes participating in jumping jacks and push-ups before they braved the cold waters. Over the years, the attendance has grown and so have the avenues for getting to Owen Beach. The five miles from the Morgan Family Y and seven miles from the Tacoma Center Y have been traveled by foot, bicycle, Razor scooter, longboard, and stand-up paddleboard. Upon arrival at Owen Beach, brave souls join hands and take a plunge three times into the water.
From funny wigs and grown men in bikini tops to a successful tandem bike ride on a flat tire, the annual Plunge event brings great fun and many memories. “I really appreciate that staff and members still work together to make this event memorable, and when you hit the cool waters of South Puget Sound there is no one better to be by your side than all your buddies from the Y,” said Blake Bolton, longtime Y member, Plunger and Y board member.
Friday, September 6 will mark this year’s Plunge. Participants will leave their respective Y at varying times based on their mode of transportation; walkers are first to leave beginning at 5am. The Plunge at Owen Beach will occur at 7:40am. Plungers are rewarded with towels, hot chocolate and transportation back to their branch after the event.