Community invited to take the plunge for Special Olympics

MEDIA RELEASE

The Lethbridge Police Service, in partnership with the Law Enforcement Torch Run, is encouraging residents to sign up for the 2024 Polar Plunge and brave the chilly waters for charity.

This year’s Polar Plunge is set for Saturday, February 3 at Henderson Lake with registration at 10 a.m. and the first plungers set to 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 lake. 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.

“While blizzard conditions aren’t in the forecast, even with the sun shining, it still takes a lot of courage to plunge into freezing cold water,” said Cst. Braylon Hyggen, who helps organize the annual event.

LPS is entering two teams this year - Shivers, which includes Hyggen, Chief Shahin Mehdizadeh, Insp. Jason Dobirstein and Mayor Blaine Hyggen, along with a team comprised of civilian employees.

Individuals or teams can register in advance at https://soa.crowdchange.ca/53959 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.