Community invited to take the plunge for Special Olympics

The Lethbridge Police Service, in partnership with the Law Enforcement Torch Run, is encouraging residents to support the 2025 Polar Plunge by braving chilly waters for charity.

This year’s Polar Plunge is scheduled for Saturday, February 8, 2025 alongside the Henderson Lake dock.  A clean bin supplied by Litter Bug will be set up on-location. Registration begins at 10 a.m. and the first plungers will enter the water at 11 a.m.

The event raises money and awareness for Special Olympics, while providing bragging rights to thrill seekers ready to brrrave the icy water. Afterwards, a hot tub generously provided by Arctic Spas, will help restore core temperatures. There will also be Tim Hortons hot beverages and #ChooseToInclude donuts for plungers. 

“Taking the plunge into freezing water isn’t for the faint of heart, but when it’s for such an incredible cause, it makes every shiver worthwhile,” said Cst. Braylon Hyggen, an event organizer. 

This year, LPS is entering two teams. The Shivers, which includes Hyggen, Inspector Jason Dobirstein, Chief Shahin Mehdizadeh and Mayor Blaine Hyggen, along with a team comprised of five current police recruits. 

Individuals or teams can register in advance at https://soa.crowdchange.ca/80017 or at 10 a.m. at Henderson Lake on Saturday. The cost to register is $50. Those who wish to donate to a team or individual can use the same link. Donations will also be accepted at the event. Tax receipts will be provided for amounts over $25. 

All plungers must be a minimum of 16-years-old and for safety reasons, there will be no diving, no cannonballs and no somersaults. Plungers must wear a swimsuit or other clothing (cool costumes are strongly encouraged). Change tents will be available on site, however there will be no secure storage for valuables.