Annual polar plunge raises money for Special Olympics

Dressed in costumes, police uniforms and even full business suits, a group of hardy Saskatchewanians lined up in downtown Regina to jump into a bin of cold water on Wednesday for a good cause.

Regina Police Deputy Chief Dean Rae was first in line to take the ‘polar plunge’ in support of Special Olympics Saskatchewan.

Deputy Police Chief Dean Rae takes the plunge for Special Olympics. pic.twitter.com/XsaawfTTfT

— Adriana Christianson (@AdrianaC_JME) February 14, 2018

“This is a lot of fun, it’s a great event for Special Olympics and I’m happy to be here representing the Regina Police Service and helping them out in their fundraising,” Rae said, admitting he was watching the weather forecast to see just how cold it would be.

Thinking back to last year’s -30 C temperature for the event, the cloudy, snowy day seemed almost balmy for Faye Matt, CEO of Special Olympics Saskatchewan.

“This plunge is something I get a little nervous about and I have to summon up my courage,” Matt explained before taking her turn.

“I recently saw some of our athletes snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in -30 C weather, so I have no need to complain because they always give it their all and that’s what inspires me to give it all to jump in today.”

Special Olympics Saskatchewan CEO Faye Matt says she had to work up her courage for the polar plunge but the athletes inspire her with their hard work every year. pic.twitter.com/qs7PtXfNYV

— Adriana Christianson (@AdrianaC_JME) February 14, 2018

Matt said supporting Special Olympics programs are important because they truly change lives by giving people with disabilities the chance to learn from and experience the joy of sports year round.

Local Special Olympic athlete Dylan Morin recited the Special Olympic athlete’s oath before the event, “Let me win, but if I can’t win, let me be brave in the attempt.”

He competes in bowling, track and athletics with Special Olympics and recently completed the national leadership program to represent Saskatchewan.

“They’re important to me because they help me get active and stay healthy and be with friends,” Morin explained.

He described the polar plunge event as “awesome,” because it helps raise money to keep Special Olympics going year after year.

But when it comes to jumping into the cold water in the middle of winter, he’s happy to watch from the sidelines.