Annual Polar Plunge event saw brave participants jump into icy waters to support athletes across Ontario.
Dozens of brave participants jumped into icy waters in downtown Kingston on Sunday as the Polar Plunge returned in support of Special Olympics Ontario.
The event took place behind the Confederation Place Hotel at 1 Brock Street and was hosted by Kingston Police as part of the Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run.
Registration began at 9:30 a.m., with plunges taking place between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Participants included individuals, community groups and local businesses who raised money before taking the cold-water plunge.
Detective Constable Bryan McMillan with Kingston Police said the event raised more than $60,000 and was close to reaching its fundraising goal.
Funds raised will support year-round programming and events for more than 23,000 Special Olympics athletes across Ontario.
Participants were able to warm up afterward with change rooms, hot tubs, refreshments, snacks and soup provided on site.
The annual event encourages the community to get “Freezin’ for a Reason” while supporting a meaningful cause.
Story by Alyssa Brush
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