Thrill seekers will brave the frigid winter weather to support a good cause this weekend.
The Lethbridge Police Service teams with Law Enforcement Torch Run to host the annual Polar Plunge on Saturday at Henderson Lake Park.
Cst. Braylon Hyggen with the LPS says it helps raise funds for Special Olympics Alberta. Plunges take place across the province, and Hyggen says in Lethbridge, the fundraising goal is $20,000. He notes 2025 is filled with Special Olympics events.
“We have the World Games, which will be in Italy. We have a figure skater from Coaldale heading there, and we will be having the Summer Games in Grande Prairie for the provincial games this year, so we will have a lot of athletes going up there, so it’s a great year to donate to this special cause,” Hyggen says.
Funds help cover the cost of items like sports equipment and facilities.
The 2025 plunge in Lethbridge will see a notable change, with participants hopping into the water in a large clean bin provided by LitterBug, as opposed jumping into Henderson Lake.
Hyggen says that change was based off safety concerns around the lake’s water quality.
The water in the bin will still be cold, but fortunately for those hopping in, Arctic Spas has donated a hot tub to help participants warm up after their plunge. Hot drinks and donuts will also be available on-site for plungers, provided by Tim Hortons.
CONTINUED GROWTH
Hyggen says it is encouraging to see the event grow over the years.
“The biggest thing that I’ve seen grow over the course of my involvement with Special Olympics is the athletes,” he remarks.
“I remember some of these athletes coming out for their first event when they first got involved with sports – they were quiet, reserved and all these events, the sports that they participate in, you’ve seen them come out of their shell.”
The LPS member says it is not just about the sports for athletes, but the social aspect.
“They are able to have friendships and comraderies with everybody else – they’re being included, so it’s a great opportunity for them for not only the physical aspect but the social aspect,” Hyggen comments, adding the event and cause is near and dear to his heart.
“It makes my job worthwhile; being able to go out into the community and support these athletes and include them in all the fun that everybody else gets to have. We’ve come a long way over the years with inclusion, [but] we still have some ways to go.”
The LPS has entered two teams for the 2025 event.
One squad includes Hyggen, Inspector Jason Dobirstein, Chief Shahin Mehdizadeh and Lethbridge mayor Blaine Hyggen. The other group includes five current police recruits.
Plungers will hit the water at 11 a.m. on Saturday, February 8 at Henderson Lake. On-site registration is at 10 a.m., but plungers can sign-up ahead of time online.
Plungers must be at least 16 years old, and Hyggen says there will be prizes for the best dressed, with attendees encouraged to wear a costume. More details, including how to donate to the cause, are at the Special Olympics Alberta website.
