More than 25 people have stated their intention to take the “Polar Plunge” here tomorrow (Jan. 1).
Swimmers and parents from the Fort Frances Aquanauts, along with a group of lifeguards at the Memorial Sports Centre pool, are among the latest to join the list of those planning to jump.
The event is set to get underway at 1 p.m. on New Year’s Day at the La Place Rendez-Vous dock.
The hotel will have snacks and beverages available to fight off the chilly air, although organizers are hoping for a mild, jumper-friendly day.
Spectators also will have the chance to pledge their favourite jumper before the plunge begins.
Jumpers are asked to arrive at the Rendez-Vous by 11:30 a.m. to register and turn in their pledges. Jumpers will be accepted up to 12:30 p.m. on that day.
Among those with the Aquanauts who’ve declared their intention to jump are John Dutton (FFAST president), Roman Ramirez (FFAST coach), Pam Hawley (FFAST parent), Jennifer Hawley (FFAST swimmer), Marty Emond (FFAST parent), and Brendan Cumming (former Aquanaut).
The lifeguards planning to take the plunge include Sarah Hebert, Megan Hebert, Lindy McTaggart, and Nicole Rogozinski.
Fort Frances High School also will be represented by a large contingent tomorrow, including student Tyson Dennis, staff members Andrew Hallikas, Darren Johnston, C. Magisano, and O. Johnson (FFHS), and retired phys. ed. teacher Rick Wiedenhoeft.
Others taking part include Jim Martindale (Fort Frances Voyageur Lions Club), Dick Briese (International Falls Lions Club), Jean-Marc Blanc and Lareina Jacques (La Place Rendez-Vous), Struchan Gilson (Fort Frances council), Dale Gill and John Green (North American Lumber), Jen O’Reilly (B93FM), Amy Adams (Red Dog Inn), and Peter Neilson (McLean’s Auto Body).
It also is rumoured that members of the International Falls swim team will accept the challenge but no names are available at this time.
There is still time to be a part of this event. As mentioned, jumpers will be accepted up to 12:30 of the day of the event.
And don’t forget there are prizes based on the number of pledges turned in as well as one for best costume.
Proceeds from this event will go to the Fort Frances Aquanauts and Voyageur Lions Club projects.
