Over 1000 people in attendance, with approximately 180 into the Hudson River. Proceeds for two young children with significant medical challenges.
STONY POINT NY – On February 11, 2024, the Stony Point Seawall in Stony Point, NY, witnessed a remarkable gathering as over 1,000 people came together to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Stony Point Seals Polar Plunge. This event, rooted in community spirit and generosity, saw over 180 participants take a courageous leap into the icy Hudson River, not merely for the thrill but to support a noble cause. The plunge aimed to provide financial assistance to local children facing high medical bills, continuing a tradition of warmth, unity, and direct support to those in need.
The founders of the Stony Point Seals, Michael Lydon, Andy Huber, Chris Bryceland, John Fox, and John Corcoran, reminisced about the event’s inception as a simple dare among friends that quickly evolved into a significant community movement. Over the years, their efforts have raised nearly $900,000 for 38 children within the Rockland community, exemplifying the power of collective action.
This year’s plunge was dedicated to helping Elijah Torres, aged 5, and Kayden Germosen, aged 3, two children from northern Rockland County facing challenging medical conditions. The selection of recipients each year is a testament to the deep compassion and solidarity of the Stony Point and broader Rockland area, reflecting the ongoing need for community support.
The event was graced by the presence of notable attendees, including County Executive Ed Day, Stony Point Town Supervisor Jim Monaghan, Haverstraw Town Supervisor Howard Phillips, and Congressman Mike Lawler. Their attendance underscored the widespread community support that has been instrumental in the event’s success.
Adding to the day’s festivities, AK40 Devin performed several original songs, captivating the crowd with a youthful hip-hop vibe. The North Rockland Chamber of Commerce, along with local celebrities like Tom Ossa, who performed a classic Beastie Boys song with AK40 Devin, and producer NIKO, further enriched the event’s atmosphere.
The plunge was not just about the jump; it was a full-fledged community event that saw everyone playing a part, from selling t-shirts and raffle tickets to manning the sign-in tables and setting up music. A motorcycle parade that started at Babe’s Restaurant and Bricktown Bierhaus in West Haverstraw, featuring over 50 motorcycles, added a thrilling prelude to the plunge, showcasing the community’s diverse ways of contributing.
John Corcoran, a Deputy Chief in the FDNY and one of the event’s founders, emphasized the plunge’s significance as a tradition that brings together colleagues, friends, and families to do something good. His reflections captured the essence of the event – a demonstration of kindness, community support, and a commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of children in need.
The Stony Point Seals’ 25th annual plunge was more than an event; it was a movement that brought together individuals from all walks of life to support a cause that touches hearts. The invitation to participate, whether by diving into the cold waters or supporting from the shore, extended to everyone, contributing to a legacy of kindness and community support that promises to continue for years to come.
