By Special Olympics Alberta

Dare to Plunge into 2019 for Special Olympics Alberta

Dec 4, 2018 | 2:56 PM

EDMONTON, AB, November 21, 2018 – Over 500 people across Alberta have discovered the thrill and joy of plunging into icy waters, have you?

The Polar Plunge dares people to dive into frozen lakes across Alberta, all to support the Special Olympics movement. The goal is to have hundreds of daredevils plunge into icy waters, raising awareness and $250,000 for Special Olympics athletes in Alberta.

“We want people daring enough to take on the challenge of icy waters to boldly show they want an inclusive society for people with intellectual disabilities,” said Johnny Byrne, Special Olympics Alberta CEO and president.

“Our Special Olympics athletes face challenges every day and they break down the barriers of isolation and lowered expectations. Breaking through the ice and showing you’re willing to challenge yourself is a small act of solidarity for our Special Olympics athletes. We can’t wait to see all the fearless plungers and supporters. For a second year, we have Mr. Lube on board to sponsor our Polar Plunge events across Alberta.”

Polar Plunge draws altruistic, thrill seekers from law enforcement, universities, corporations, government officials, professional athletes and even Special Olympics athletes. Plungers take on the cold to make sure that over 3,000 of people with intellectual disabilities in Alberta are empowered through sport.

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Since 2011, over 2,000 people have plunged into frozen lakes. Past Polar Plunge alumni include: Rick Mercer, Olympic medalist Jamie Sale, Calgary Stampeder Alex Singleton, Olympic gymnast Kylie Stone, Edmonton Police Service Deputy Chief Brian Simpson, Calgary Police Service Deputy Chief Ray Robitaille, Tsuut’ina Police Chief Keith Blake, RCMP Criminal Operations Officer John Ferguson, M.P., Hon. Mike Lake and M.L.A Michael Connolly.

The event is presented in partnership with Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) for Special Olympics Alberta with five cities hosting the event: Calgary, Edmonton, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, and Red Deer.

The next Red Deer event takes place March 9 at 12 p.m. at Bower-Kin Community Center.

In 2018, the Polar Plunge raised over $223,000 with over 500 plungers in the five cities. All event locations are open for registration at www.alberta.polarplunge.ca. To take part, each plunger will raise $75 from pledge donations.

“After a successful 2018 campaign where Alberta Mr. Lube Franchisees and customers raised $24,152 for Special Olympics, we are thrilled to be participating again in 2019.  What an amazing way to celebrate Canadian spirit and keep Special Olympics athlete’s dreams alive.  Mr. Lube is ecstatic to sponsor and fundraise once again and look forward to another successful effort by all involved,” said Jason Guenter from Mr. Lube Canada CEO.

For more details and photos on Polar Plunge Alberta, go to www.alberta.polarplunge.ca.