More than 280 police officers, athletes and politicians jumped into the icy water of the Lachine Canal in Montreal on Saturday as part of the Polar Bear Challenge, in support of athletes living with intellectual disabilities.
PHOTO JOSIE DESMARAIS, THE PRESS
The Minister responsible for First Nations and Inuit Relations, Ian Lafrenière, was the first to jump into the icy water. “This is the fourth time I’ve done it. The first time, you’re excited. By the fourth, you wonder why,” he said to The Press laughing. “But it’s something important to raise money and raise awareness. »
PHOTO JOSIE DESMARAIS, THE PRESS
Even Cautious Bear, the official RCMP mascot, jumped into the icy water. The event was organized by the Peace Officers Torch Run, which brings together more than 110,000 police officers and peace officers.
PHOTO JOSIE DESMARAIS, THE PRESS
Quick, warm. The organizers wrap the participants in a blanket, offer them broth, then head to the chalet in the Lachine riverside park to warm up.
PHOTO JOSIE DESMARAIS, THE PRESS
An amount of more than $112,000 was raised for this edition of the Challenge. The money raised during the activity will help finance Special Olympics Quebec programs for athletes with intellectual disabilities.