First responders across the south Island and beyond are preparing to brave Saanich’s frigid waters for a good cause.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run Vancouver Island Polar Plunge is set to take place on Feb. 16, aiming to raise funds for Special Olympics BC (SOBC).
The event will kick off at 9:30 a.m. at Cadboro-Gyro Park, with live music from local up-and-coming country singer Benson Town and a variety of family-friendly activities. An opening ceremony will take place at 10:45 a.m. followed by the plunge at 11 a.m.
Throughout the event, several first responders and law enforcement agencies will have booths and engage with the public.
Among those present will be Victoria Police Chief Constable Del Manak, who also sits on SOBC’s executive council.
Having participated in every Polar Plunge on the Island since 2019, the police chief awaits the event with anticipation each year, marking it on his calendar.
“[We] raise money for Special Olympics athletes so that they can compete in sports, achieve their personal best, and allow them to showcase their skills,” said Manak. “It just gives them an opportunity to have a sense of belonging, a sense of teamwork, a sense of achievement, and help them grow.”
The funds raised through the Polar Plunge will support Special Olympics BC athletes, helping them pursue their goals, build new friendships, and participate in health programs. For many athletes, their sport is the primary place where they experience vital social connections, healthy physical activity, and opportunities to be seen for their abilities, explained Manak.
SOBC currently supports 3,200 athletes, from two to 90 years old, with a wide range of abilities, across 55 communities provincewide.
One of them is Victoria's Michael Langridge, an accomplished and versatile athlete, excelling in alpine skiing, bocce, floor hockey, and soccer.
His commitment and dedication have earned him two gold medals at the 2017 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Austria. After shining on the world stage, Langridge was honoured with SOBC’s prestigious 2018 Athletic Achievement Award.
In an interview with Saanich News, he mentioned that without the funding provided by SOBC to cover his training, travels, and competition fees, none of this would have been possible.
“Special Olympics BC changed my life for the better and I met new people along the way,” said Langridge.
Having already raised nearly $14,000 towards their $50,000 goal, Manak and Langridge encourage everyone to contribute to this life-changing cause. To do so, people can visit shorturl.at/66yFl.
Alternatively, the two men invite everyone to take a cold dip with them on Feb. 16.
“I'm encouraging members of our community to come out to support the polar plunge,” said Manak. “This is so much fun, it's uplifting and it's a great event.”
To register for the event, visit shorturl.at/ZdwAd.
