NARRAGANSETT –The Law Enforcement Torch Run community is gearing up for a bone-chilling weekend at Salty Brine State Beach, where participants will take on two daring ocean plunge events to support Special Olympics Rhode Island – including one new plunger from Burrillville.
The 24-Hour Super Plunge and the Torch Run Plunge are expected to draw hundreds of participants and spectators, raising funds and awareness for more than 4,000 Special Olympics Rhode Island athletes.
And this year, Zach Coyne of Burrillville will be one of four new participants.
The 24-Hour Super Plunge kicks off at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 22, with a team with 17 members plunging into the icy ocean every hour, on the hour, for a full 24 hours. Battling freezing waters, sleep deprivation, and the elements, these Super Plungers will push their limits for the cause. The Torch Run Plunge on Sunday, March 23 starting at noon will mark the grand finale.
The extreme fundraising tradition was launched in 2013 by Chief Elwood Johnson of the Richmond Police Department, inspired by an international Law Enforcement Torch Run conference. Funds raised from the event directly benefit Special Olympics Rhode Island, ensuring athletes can participate in year-round sports training and competitions completely free of charge. In 2024, the Torch Run Super Plunge team raised a combined total of more than $140,000.
Participants in 2025 will include law enforcement officers, firefighters, military personnel, and longtime supporters of Special Olympics Rhode Island.
Coyne, a police officer for the city of Warwick and staff sergeant with the 143rd Airlift Wing of the Rhode Island Air National Guard, will be a first time participant.
The plunge will take place at Salty Brine State Beach and the public is welcome to attend. Learn more – or show your support by making a donation – here.
