Polar Plunge raises money for Special Olympics

About 35 people took the plunge into Ramsey Lake on Saturday afternoon for a good cause.

For the third year in a row, Greater Sudbury Police hosted the Polar Plunge, giving participants the opportunity to jump into the lake – and raise awareness for Special Olympics Ontario.

The crowd gathered by the boat launch on Ramsey, where police and fire crews stood by the hole in the ice. Jumpers emerged from tents before splashing down and heading into two saunas set up on the ice to warm up.

Jumpers raised money before the event and many showed up in costumes, accompanied by family and friends. Participants received a complimentary toque and mittens, and could take part in a reception afterward.

The top fundraiser will receive an iPad. And any individual raising $2,500 or more, they will have their name entered into a contest for a chance to win an all-expense paid trip to the ultimate Polar Plunge in the polar capital of the world; Churchill, Man.

It's not known yet how much Saturday's plunge raised, but last year's event raised more than $21,000.