Polar Plunge raising awareness for Special Olympics

It is almost time to take the plunge in Lethbridge in support of Special Olympics Alberta. The Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge will be taking place in a virtual setting this year. From January 30th to March 12th, you can get creative with your plunges. Constable Braylon Hyggen, the Chair of the Law Enforcement Torch Run, says it is important to generate funds for the event, but raising awareness for the Special Olympics is even more vital.

“That is the biggest thing is we want to raise the money, but as well we want everyone to know what Special Olympics is all about. We want people to be aware that it is in all of our communities that we have those who have intellectual disabilities that sometimes can’t participate in high school sports. There are some schools that are breaking away and getting to that point. We just want people to know that there are events for them to keep our athletes motivated, have a social group, and to be physically fit.”

Hyggen says the in person plunge on February 5th has been canceled due to the pandemic.Last year, 213 plungers took part in virtual dips and raised 116 thousand dollars in support of Special Olympics Alberta.