St.Clair students take a dive for Polar Plunge

St. Clair College hosted its annual Polar Plunge on Feb. 2.

The jump was for all St. Clair College students, staff and alumni who had paid a $30 registration fee.

The jumps took place in an outdoor pool located at the main campus at St. Clair College in Windsor.

Dick Byron, a Windsor police officer, has taken part in the Polar Plunge for the second time.

“This is my second year participating in the polar plunge,” said Byron. “The water is colder than last year. It changes a lot, but I feel very excited. I hope this event can give people more energy,”

The Polar Plunge is a unique opportunity for individuals, organizations and businesses to support Special Olympics Ontario athletes by gathering pledges and plunging into the icy waters for the cause.

The Facebook page for the Polar Plunge said what unites the participants is a need to face their initial fear, shock their bodies, feel alive and celebrate their bravery.

The Polar Plunge is co-hosted by St. Clair College, the Windsor Police Service and the OPP. The event is presented in partnership with the non-profit group Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run which also raises awareness and money to help support Special Olympics Ontario.

This year’s goal is to raise $75,000.

“This event’s main purpose is to help athletes by raising money. I hope the polar plunge can help more people,” said Sarah Ryrie, a member of St. Clair’s support staff.

There was a free concert following the plunge. Windsor based band Buck Twenty performed at 3pm in the school gym.

There will be another Polar Plunge for the general public on Saturday, Feb. 4 at a registration cost of $50.