SPECIAL OLYMPICS – Polar plunge at Riverside Park to help in fundraising

(Image: City of Kamloops)

First responders are preparing for a cold swim in support of the Special Olympics Polar Plunge.

On March 5, 2026, at 10 a.m., at Riverside Park, officers from the Kamloops RCMP detachment will brave the cold river waters to bring awareness as part of fundraising efforts to support Special Olympic British Columbia.

“We have a good turnout every year,” said Cst. Phil Whiles, lead event organizer.  “With a little bit of friendly motivation from our chicken, we are able to motivate emergency responders to either participate in the plunge or donate.”

The event is open to everyone in the public to attend.  Kamloops Fire Rescue will attend to provide water safety overwatch for those participating.  Those wanting to take the plunge alongside first responders can register with Special Olympics British Columbia by clicking on the link Kamloops Polar Plunge | PolarPlunge SOBC .

For more information, contact the Lead Event Coordinator Constable Phil Whiles at Philip.Whiles@rcmp–grc.gc.ca or for general inquiries contact Meg Ishida at mishida@specialolympics.bc.ca.