Organizers of the 34th Annual Polar Plunge in Campbellford have announced the event will be rescheduled due to dangerously low temperatures forecast.
The event will now take place on January 31st.
The Lakelands Public Health Unit issued a cold warning for Northumberland County, with extreme wind chill and frostbite risks, prompting organizers to prioritize the safety of plungers, volunteers, spectators, and the Trent Hills Fire Department.
The Polar Plunge, hosted by the Auxiliary to Campbellford Memorial Hospital, is a long-standing winter tradition that raises funds for quality local healthcare. Participants take an icy dip in the Trent River at Lion’s Club Community Park on County Road 50.
For over three decades, the event has brought together new and returning participants, community teams, and visitors from outside the area, including supporters traveling from Ohio. Teams include the Trent Hills Thunder Hockey Team, Team CMH, Fleming College Paramedicine Team, Rotary International Student Exchange Team, Aspira Island Park, Campbellford Veterinary Services, Norwood Veterinary Services, Campbellford Legion, License to Chill, and Team Sno-hio. Many participants are inspired by the care they or loved ones have received at CMH.
This year’s fundraising goal is $25,000, supported by a generous matching pledge from Bruce and Elizabeth Thompson and backing from the Royal Bank of Canada.
