2024 Polar Plunge made waves for Special Olympics BC

Plungers running into cold waters

What a big splash for the 2024 Polar Plunge for Special Olympics BC! This year’s event raised more than $310,000 for SOBC!

Brave Plungers got bold and cold at in-person events across the province and found creative ways to take the Plunge from home.

During Vancouver’s community event held at Kitsilano Beach, SOBC – Langley athlete Christopher Lakusta spoke to the crowd of Plungers on what Special Olympics means to him.

"Special Olympics is something very positive in my life for many reasons. I have made new friends, the travel opportunities, the support and awareness, the opportunity to try new sports, and gain more confidence," he said.

From Saanich to Surrey, Kamloops to Kitimat, and Abbotsford to Port Moody – people from across the province braved cold waters for SOBC!

“The Abbotsford Police Department is very proud of all of our local Special Olympics BC athletes and we are honoured to continue to participate and host this event,” said the Abbotsford Police Department in a statement.

Funds raised will help play a vital part in helping athletes find purpose, friendships, and fitness through the Special Olympics sport, youth, and health programs that matter to them. For athletes like Samantha Maclean from SOBC – Kimberley/Cranbrook, Special Olympics is place of inclusion, acceptance, and empowerment.

“When I was younger, I was pretty shy and very away from people. But ever since I joined, I’m very social and bubbly!” she said to CBC News.

Plungers cheering with each other in cold waters
Plungers charging into chilly waves at Cadboro-Gyro Park, Saanich! Photo courtesy of Alley Sibley.

Celebrating #Plunge4SOBC award winners

Congratulations to all the event’s top fundraising individuals and teams!

Special Olympics BC – Abbotsford athlete Daniel Boshart was the top SOBC athlete, raising over $5,500!

Find all Plunge award and prize winners

Thank you for making an impact!

We are so grateful to Plunge participants, donors, the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics BC, and the event’s wonderful sponsors!

Community Partner: Dueck Auto Group 

Media Sponsors: Citytv, Jack 96.9, OMNI Television, and SONiC

A big shoutout to all the communities across the province that held in-person Plunge events:

  • Abbotsford
  • Chilliwack
  • Cranbrook
  • Kamloops
  • Maple Ridge
  • Nelson
  • Oliver
  • Port Moody
  • Saanich
  • Surrey
  • Terrace
  • Vancouver
  • West Vancouver

Polar Plunge for SOBC homepage

2024 Polar Plunge photos
 

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