Sure to make a splash, participants are in for a shock as they hit the arctic water. PHOTOS: EMILY MARSTEN
The Calgary Icebreaker Polar Dip is a fundraiser where Canadians help raise awareness and money about human trafficking by plunging into an ice-cold lake. Mahogany Lake was transformed into a swimming spot earlier in the day by taking a chainsaw to the ice. On Feb. 12, hoping to win one of the allotted prizes, 75 participants dressed up in absurd costumes and performed before jumping in.
In pairs, solo or sometimes in a group, participants went above and beyond in their performances and costumes, creating a memorable experience for a good cause. On a cloudy day with an estimated high of 8 degrees, participants are sure to have a chilly dive into the frigid waters, many of them jumping in with just swim shorts.
This year, the events fundraising goal was $100,000 with the funds raised going to the SA Foundation, “A non-profit organization that was started in Calgary to help fight human trafficking by providing safe, long-term housing and programs for affected women and their children,” a media release handed out at the event stated.
The Old Guys in Action duo, Ross Weaver and Bernie Potvin made a show of dance-walking down across the platform before taking the plunge into the ice-water. Founders of Calgary’s version of the Polar Dip and representing their company Old Guys in Action, Ross Weaver and Bernie Potvin sport traditional red and white costumes and prominent maple leafs resembling the Canadian flag.
