By Steve Polston

The Frosty 5K Run/Walk and the annual Polar Bear Plunge at Brookville Lake are fabulous fun to watch.

I’ve never entered the race or taken the plunge in the frigid tail waters at the federal dam in Franklin County, Indiana … but I’ve watched and admired the madness for years.

Indiana Timing, which promotes the Frosty 5, allows online registration on their web site. The race begins at 10 a.m.

The Polar Bear Plunge at Noon attracts many of the runners and walkers from the Frosty 5 and the small parking lot below the dam at Indiana 101 in Brookville gets crowded early. If you plan to make the plunge it’s best to find a parking spot an hour or so before Noon. Tailgaters are known to enjoy the bracing and unpredictable weather and the party atmosphere prevails until just a few minutes after Noon when most have emerged from the water and are headed off to warmer locations.

I think it can be shockingly cold to walk across the tail waters, so don't do this if you think your doctor would advise against it. Maybe it's just best to watch from a distance.

The 5K course is a beautiful scenic run with slow rolling hills through Brookville Town Park , Main Street, and ending back near the tail water area, according to the race Web site.

Race trophies are awarded to male and female overall winners for both walk and run. Medals awarded to age group winners.

Age groups: 14 and under, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59 and 60+.

Awards will be presented as soon as possible after all participants have finished. Door prizes are awarded and you must be present to win.

Your non-refundable pre-registration fee must postmarked by Dec. 18. Pre-registration: $12 (includes T-shirt). Race Day registration: $15 (includes T-shirt, while supplies last).