Special Olympics Ontario hosted its annual Polar Plunge at 100 Kellogg Lane in the cold rain on Friday.
The event was one of several across Ontario, which have already raised over $720,000 of the $1 million goal. Despite the weather, over 250 participants joined the event, which included a live band and mascots.
“It was freezing, I couldn’t get out of there quick enough,” said Liam Jackson, who participated with Nothers, The Award Store.
The event, which drew teams from London businesses, military and emergency services, is meaningful to participants, said Royal Canadian Mounted Police Insp. Tim Diebel.
“Athletes that participate in Special Olympics have their own obstacles to overcome,” said Diebel. “It’s important for me, and it shows that, you know what, there are challenges, and challenges can be overcome and I praise all the athletes that participate.”
Funds raised in the Polar Plunge go toward the Special Olympics programming.
The crowd at the 2026 Polar Plunge (Noah Paradis XFM News)
“The event helps pay for uniforms, field rentals, travel costs, anything involved in running Special Olympics throughout Ontario,” said Derek Spence, manager of the Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run & emcee of the Polar Plunge.
The event had tent-like change rooms and a warming centre for plungers. There were also warming torches located just outside of the plunge tank that kept spectators warm throughout the event.
