Annual Kingston Police Polar Plunge raises over $70K for Special Olympics Ontario

The first person jumping into Lake Ontario in Kingston, Ont. for the 13th annual Polar Plunge. (Jack Richardson/CTV News Ottawa).

The 13th annual Kingston Police Polar Plunge took place Sunday morning to raise funds for about 23,000 Special Olympics athletes in Ontario.

The event involves participants having to donate a minimum of $40 as a group or individually, then they get to take a frigid swim in Lake Ontario.

Over $70,000 was raised, eclipsing the goal of $60,000.

“Having this many people out to plunge and create awareness, to meet our athletes, and the support that we get from the community is really incredible,” said Bryan McMillan, a detective with the Kingston Police Department and one of the lead organizers of the event.

McMillan adds that raising awareness for Special Olympics Ontario is just as important as the funds.

Roughly 200 people waited in line to jump in the water, some participating for the first year - like Emily Edwards.

“Once you get out, you just focus on your breathing,” she said as she was warming up in a nearby hot tub.

Other participants like Jonnethon Marconi, who’s returning for a fourth consecutive year, weren’t concerned with the cold water.

“I feel great. I love the cold. I skipped the hot tub. (I) just came out and (I’m) just enjoying the moment,” he said. “It’s such a great fundraiser. It’s a great cause. Everyone gets involved and the energy’s amazing. So, I love it.”

Donations are still being accepted in this link.