With the ocean temperature at just 7.3C — and the air not much warmer — it was a daring bunch who took part in the 2025 Special Olympics BC Polar Plunge, Feb. 27.
Special Olympics athlete reporter Mike Oswald, was part of the enthusiastic crowd who braved the cold and joined dozens of supporters as they ran into the ocean by Trail Bay Pier.
Oswald was joined by another Special Olympics athlete, Sarah Black, who has previously competed in swimming and bocce ball competitions with the organization.
Oswald said he’s been competing in the Special Olympics for almost 20 years.
“And I was the first Special Olympics athlete reporter,” said Oswald.
Also taking part in the swim were officers and support staff from the Sunshine Coast RCMP, cold-water swimmers, including members of the Daring Dippers of the Salish Sea, and Blue Titty Committee, staff and volunteers from Special Olympics BC, including Sunshine Coast executive director Randy Younghusband, and many others.
Following the swim, hot chocolate and pizza were enjoyed by a propane fire pit.
