Thu, Jan 1 2009 - New Years Day Polar Bear Dip (View Original Event Details)
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Snowy ground and icy water greeted us as we arrived at Sunnyside Beach for the 2009 Polar Bear Dip. By now it was too late to turn back and chicken out so we joked and laughed to disguise our fear and trepidation.
I brought a couple of new, really fashionable bathing caps but Kate rejected hers. Later, when she saw them on Alicja and me, Kate got jealous and wanted one. I also brought leis for us to model.
The sunny skies made it seem somewhat warmer and we welcomed the lack of winds. Starbucks was on hand with complimentary coffee and hot chocolate that really hit the spot.
A live band also provided uplifting tunes. Soon the volunteers were done literally breaking the ice and clearing a path in the water for the 'dippers'. Then, after more buildup, we finally got the chance to rush in. Some just went in to their ankles and knees. Others bravely went completely underwater.
Not sure if it was my pink bathing cap, the matching lei, or the hula skirt but for whatever reason CTV and CITY both wanted to interview me.
After warming up with the big, fluffy, towels provided to participants to keep we all agreed to do it again next year. What a blast!
Have some photos from this event that you'd like to share in our photo album? Please forward them to Erik Sonstenes at photos@torontooutdoorclub.com. Please note that we prefer to receive the photos in approximately 640x480 or 750x500 pixels - do NOT send original high-res photos. If you have a LOT of photos, please submit up to twenty of your favorites (only) for a day event, or up to forty of your favourites for a multi-day event. Thank you.