Join 20th Annual Long Beach Polar Bears Super Bowl Splash

Next Sunday, February 2nd, excited crowds will fill the boardwalk and hit the waves in Long Beach to celebrate the 20th annual Long Beach Polar Bears Super Bowl Splash, benefiting Make-A-Wish Metro New York. Since its inception, this event has raised over $7 million to help make wishes come true for children with critical illnesses.

The Splash is held in honor of Long Beach native Paulie Bradley, who passed away from leukemia at age 4 before his wish could be granted. The community-driven event has grown every year – a feat that would not have been possible without the enduring commitment of the original founding Long Beach Polar Bears – Pete and Barbara Meyers, Kevin and Judy McCarthy, and Mike and the late Patti Bradley, Paulie’s parents.

This community juggernaut started as a small tribute to a little boy. “In the beginning it was literally just our friends. Then their friends started showing up. It grew through word of mouth. Long Beach is a very special community. They help each other. When someone says, ‘I’m doing a fundraiser for Make-A-Wish, will you support me?’ they do,” said Pete Meyers. “We’re very grateful that the city of Long Beach also chose to support it and Make-A-Wish by taking on responsibility for lifeguards, police and EMS services.”

The city of Long Beach now estimates that about 20,000 people show up each year and between 5,000 and 7,000 of them actually jump in the ocean.

“It’s amazing to watch the energy, joy and enthusiasm of the Long Beach Polar Bears and the Long Beach community in their support of wish kids. Wishes have proven physical and emotional benefits that can lead to better health outcomes for kids with critical illnesses. The commitment and generosity of this community is making a life-changing difference for these children,” said Phil Lussier, President and CEO, Make-A-Wish Metro New York and Western New York. “We cannot thank them enough.”

The festivities kick off on Sunday at noon on Long Beach’s Riverside Boulevard boardwalk, with a group ocean splash at 1:30 pm. For more information or to make a donation, go to www.longbeachpolarbears.org.