Annual Polar Plunge returns to Greater Sudbury next month

A tradition that sees hundreds of participants plunge into icy waters for a good cause makes its return next month in Greater Sudbury.

An annual event that draws out hundreds of brave participants to plunge into icy waters makes its return in March.

Proceeds from the Polar Plunge support Special Olympics Ontario and its athletes.

Recently, Greater Sudbury Police Service hosted a media event to raise awareness about the event.

Chief Sarah Cunningham will be taking the plunge for the first time.

“I’m feeling great. It’s a great cause,” she said.

“I’ve been mentally preparing for the freezing cold waters, but again, you know, it helps raise funds for athletes here locally as well as provincially ... I’ll definitely be getting freezin’ for a reason and the reason is our Special Olympic athletes.”

Last year’s event saw over 300 participants and $30,000 raised.

“It helps to pay for their uniforms, their travel, their accommodations, their food and all that kind of stuff,” said Lynn Houle, program coordinator for Special Olympics of Greater Sudbury.

Houle told CTV News that there have been numerous local athletes who have gone on to participate in the Special Olympics.

“Here in Sudbury, we’ve been lucky enough,” she said.

“We’ve had three athletes who made it to worlds and have been to worlds, and nationals’ games.”

The Polar Plunge will take place March 8 at the Northern Water Sports Centre.

There will be prizes for top fundraisers, best costume and most spirit.

More information can be found on the Special Olympics Ontario’s Polar Plunge website.