Edmontonians partake in Polar Plunge Special Olympics fundraiser – Edmonton | 24CA News
Over 200 Edmontonians took half within the Polar Plunge on Sunday to boost funds for Special Olympics athletes throughout the province.
In Edmonton, cops, skilled athletes and group members plunged into the frigid waters of Lake Summerside.
The plunge, which began in Lethbridge in 2012, hasn’t taken place in individual since 2019. This yr marks the twelfth anniversary of the occasion which is a part of the Law Enforcement Torch Run group — “the largest public awareness and grassroots fundraising organization for Special Olympics globally,” based on Special Olympics Alberta.
This yr, the tons of of plungers have raised over $100,000, mentioned Const. Amanda Trenchard, who can also be a coach.
She mentioned it’s good to be again and see folks you haven’t seen in three years after spending two years doing the plunge nearly.
“It’s just so cool to be here and for such a good cause – the athletes are so excited to be back,” she mentioned.
All the cash raised goes in the direction of the athletes to assist them compete of their sport, together with low-cost programming, mentioned Sue Gilchrist, Special Olympics Alberta CEO.
“This is a community event — it only works if the community is behind it,” she mentioned. “The community is behind Special Olympics and we see that loud and clear today, it’s fantastic.”
As for the chilly plunge? It hurts, she admits, however it’s price it.
“Our athletes, they put everything on the line. They give so much when they compete. They give so much when they practice. This is a small, small, small price to pay for all the effort they put into being the best athletes they can be.”
The athletes shall be competing subsequent month in Strathcona County. For extra info on plunges throughout the province or find out how to donate, go to the Special Olympics Alberta web site.
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