It was a great day for a (quick) dip in the waters of Lake Ontario for the annual Cobourg and Port Hope Police Polar Plunge 2024.
The event featured over 70 participants from all types of emergency services to people just wanting to have fun.
As a bagpiper played to kick-off the event at the marina boat launch in Cobourg one by one the groups were announced and took the plunge into the frigid waters.
The event was organized by Port Hope Police Constable Tammie Staples and Cobourg Police Constable Josalyn Hilts.
Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run Manager Derek Spence said there were 34 Polar Plunges this year, with the last one being in Cobourg.
“Today wraps up an unbelievable Polar Plunge season. We set a goal of $750,000 across the Province and I can tell you that as of this morning, we’ve surpassed one-million dollars.”
Spence said it was a record breaking year for the organization that raises funds for Special Olympics.
“As soon as you mention Special Olympics, the generosity of people is just astounding.”
“It’s such a great cause and people are aware of that. People come out and are freezin for a reason as we call it.”
The funds raised make a “big, big difference,” helping to pay for a variety of things including uniforms, field rentals, travelling out of town and anything that makes the event possible.”
After the event was completed the organizers who were shivering took a few moments to speak with Today’s Northumberland.
“It went great, “ said Hilts.
“We’re freezin for a reason – still cold.”
After a year, Hilts said it didn’t take long to remember how cold it was when you hit the water.
“I think it was the walk coming out that was the coldest,” said Staples.
“But even the walk coming out, everyone was laughing, smiling, cheering us on.”
Through the efforts of the participants over $25,000 between the two towns.
“It was a great partnership,” said Staples.
Special Olympics Coin Fundraiser
Both services have a special coin they are selling with funds going to the Special Olympics
Constable Josalyn Hilts designed the coin.
On one side it has people running for the Torch Run that takes place every year for Special Olympics and the other side has someone plunging into the frigid water.
Last year they raised $2,500 through the sale of the limited edition coins.
Coins can be purchased at either the Cobourg or Port Hope Police Station for $20.00.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
