NARRAGANSETT, R.I. (WPRI) — Hundreds of people took part in the annual Penguin Plunge for Special Olympics Rhode Island on Wednesday.

The plunge took place at Scarborough State Beach in Narragansett and is Special Olympics RI's longest-running charity event.

The event raises money for their athletes to utilize their services and programs free of charge.

"We cannot be more excited," Special Olympics RI CEO Ed Pacheco said. "Every dollar that's raised, every plunge that happens today is ensuring that every Rhode Islander with intellectual disabilities has the opportunity to participate in Special Olympics at no cost."

Emily MacLaughlin, one of the athletes, told 12 News it makes her "very happy" to see all the people turnout for this event.

Organizers said this year's plunge raised more than $160,000 for Special Olympics RI.