Brave Swimmers Taking the Plunge Saturday at Centennial Beach

Find that bathing suit and if you are very brave prepare to take the pre-season plunge.

is opening Saturday for a preview of summertime fun and giving anyone who wants the chance to take a dip in the very cool water. 

Last year the didn’t hold the pre-season plunge because of the renovations that were underway at the Beach, said Naperville Park District Aquatics Manager, Andrea Coates. This is the second time the plunge will be held. It was done for the first time in 2010 and it was very successful. 

“For the most part people run in and run out, however there are some brave souls that will stay in the water longer,” Coates said, adding some people even take a trip down the slide.

The temperature of the water is about 63 degrees right now, Coates said. 

“It’s actually warmer than usual,” she said. “I’m not sure if it’s the warm March we had that warmed the rocks.”

The plunge will go on regardless of the temperature or weather, Coates said. The only exception would be if there is lightning, should it rain. The National Weather Service is forecasting a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms are possible in the morning.

Centennial Beach opens for the season on May 26 and will be open until the season ends on Sept. 3.

To kick off the plunge, the lifeguards will blow their whistles to signal the sprint into the water. After the plunge, the Park District’s lifeguards will show off their skills, demonstrating safety skills and offering a view into training drills, the park district said. 

In 2010, more than 100 people participated in the plunge, according to the park district. Coates said many people really enjoyed the event, so officials are expecting a good turn out.

Park District Executive Director Ray McGury was one of the brave to hit the water in 2010, according to the park district.

“It’s an experience you won’t soon forget, and a reminder of just how much you appreciate warmer water,” McGury said in a news release. “We invite you to help kick off the 2012 Centennial Beach season with us at this unique event.”

The plunge will take place at 1 p.m. Saturday at Centennial Beach. The event is free to the public. Centennial Beach opens for the season on May 26.