A host of people from Ekurhuleni and across the country braved the cold water for a fund-raising polar plunge in Bartlett on the morning of July 27. It was the first edition of the annual Hospice East Rand Polar Plunge, which takes place during winter where die-hard swimmers enter a body of water despite the low temperature.The first edition saw brave souls actually diving into the hotel’s swimming pool, and others just came to grace the initiative.

Hospice East Rand liaison officer Laura Kirsten said plungers had to donate R100 (R50 for children) before they took the leap in the annual polar plunge event held to raise money for the organisation. “The event raised just above R2 000 and we’re hoping that next year more people will be able to take part,” said Kirsten.

The fund-raiser also had supporters who came all the way from Hilton in KwaZulu-Natal. According to one of the participants, Alex Robertson, the water was cold enough to paralyse your body in a few minutes. That, however, didn’t keep him, his wife, and other daring people from taking the plunge into the pool. Food for supporters, as well as tea to warm up participants after the bracing swim was also available. The hotel offered the venue free of charge and Emer-G-Med also supported the initiative.

Article from the Boksburg Advertiser
Author: Fanie Mthupha