New Year's Day polar plunge and fun run

Danielle Switalski

For those of you ready to start your new year off with a bang or maybe an ice cold bath, you won’t have to wait too long, as the Polar Bear Plunge and the annual Fun Run are going on as planned this coming January 1.

The Fun Run and Walk is set to begin at 11 a.m. starting at Mighty Fine T’s, east of Thompson Falls. The two runs this year will be 5K and 2K in distance. The 11th annual Fun Run and Walk will be followed by the annual Polar Bear Plunge for those out there looking for a little adventure and want to jump into the Clark Fork river. Those brave enough are set to meet at the dock on the east end of Thompson Falls at 1 p.m. on New Years Day following the fun run. The event is set to go on as scheduled unless the river is iced over on that day.

The Fun Run and Walk will start at the State Building on the east end of Thompson Falls and continues on a loop path by the airport.

The Fun Run was started 11 years ago to help out the Thompson Falls and Plains cross country teams. Last year, the run benefited the Clark Fork Valley Running Club, which uses its funds to help kids who are interested in running, but may not be able to afford entry fees for races or running shoes. Thompson Falls cross country coach and Fun Run organizer Sarah Naegeli said last year they had around 100 to 150 runners and she is hoping for the same turnout at this year’s event.

Naegeli said they had extra money leftover from last year and were able to award a few local kids with scholarships who were looking to further their education while simultaneously continuing their running careers.

The proceeds this year will again go back into the hands of the local cross country teams as they are in need of funding. Thompson Falls’ runners have helped to organize the event this year. There will also be a $50 gift certificate for the Runner’s Edge store in Missoula raffled off following the run.