Polar Plunge at Kitsilano Beach Saturday
Posted March 2, 2024 10:47 am.
Last Updated March 3, 2024 10:48 pm.
Dozens of people are expected to dive into icy waters of Kitsilano Beach Saturday for the Polar Plunge.
The polar plunge — which happens every year — is in support of Special Olympics B.C., which empowers athletes with intelectual disabilities who compete in both winter and summer competitions.
The organizers of the event say they raise funds for sport, youth, and health programs. It is a fun way for the community to “connect and show we care about people with intellectual disabilities and creating inclusion.”
Vancouver police Chief Adam Palmer says the police department will be participating again this year.
“(For) the past nine years we’ve been supporting the Polar Plunge, which is an amazing event that occurs every year, where Vancouver police officers, other emergency services personnel and members of the public jump into the Pacific Ocean at Kitsilano Beach,” he said.
Palmer shares his enthusiasm for the jump and asks everyone to “get bold and cold and raise money for Special Olympics.”
“These incredible people participate in 18 different sports, winter and summer sports locally, provincially, nationally and even internationally,” he added.
The organizers say that “too many people with intellectual disabilities are still being left behind and forgotten by our society” and the funds raised in the polar plunge events could help alleviate that.
“For many Special Olympics B.C. athletes, our year-round sport, youth, and health programs are the primary place – or for too many, the only place – where they experience vital social connections, healthy physical activity, and opportunities to be seen for their abilities,” organizers said.
“Special Olympics is a catalyst for social change. Through the power and joy of sport, Special Olympics athletes open hearts and minds to their abilities, and build stronger communities that thrive in showing inclusion and respect for people with intellectual disabilities.”
As Saturday morning, more than $75,000 was raised in donations for the event.
With files from David Nadalini.
