Nothing starts off the new year better than going for a swim in the freezing cold ocean.
Or at least the Prince Rupert Rotary Club believes so, organizing the annual Polar Bear Swim each year as one of the ways the club gives back to the community.
“It’s quite the experience to jump in the water. It’s a great way to start off the new year… If you don’t want to jump in it’s always fun to point and laugh at your crazy neighbours,” said Shaun Thomas, co-chair of the Polar Bear Swim Committee, who will be jumping in himself.
The event brings in brave individuals of all ages, from pre-teens to seniors, who show up year after year making this event a success.
The Polar Bear Swim will begin at 1 p.m. on Jan. 1 at Rushbrooke Floats, but the Rotary club encourages people to come down at 12:30 in the afternoon for hot beverages and hot dogs prior to the swim, courtesy of the club.
Since the Polar Bear Swim isn’t crazy enough, over the years organizers have urged participants to dress up in costumes, offering the best dressed individual and group prizes.
The Prince Rupert Rotary Club sends thanks out to the local business who sponsor the swim, and to the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue – Station 64 crew who are on patrol each year ensuring all swimmers are safe.