Canadians take the polar bear plunge to ring in 2025: ‘A little bit crazy’
Global News
Strong winds and almost freezing temperatures didn't deter thousands of brave souls from jumping into icy cold water for across Canada in a New Year's Day tradition.
Strong winds and almost freezing temperatures didn’t deter thousands of brave souls from jumping into icy cold water for across Canada in a New Year’s Day tradition.
Some 750 people took part in the Courage Polar Bear Dip in Oakville., Ont., just west of Toronto on Wednesday.
Aiden Peel, who travelled more than 100 kilometres from Innisfil, Ont., to take the plunge said it was his way to get a fresh start in the new year without a hangover.
The Oakville-based polar bear dip into Lake Ontario has been running for 40 years, and is one of many such events across the country that raise money for charity.
The event attracted people of all ages. Among the participants was eight-year-old Evelyn Gray, who was planning on taking the polar dip with her father.
“I’m very excited because I’ve always wanted to do this,” she said.
World Vision Canada CEO Michael Messenger said the plunge is expected to raise about $100,000, but numbers won’t be finalized for “a couple of days.” He said the funds will be used to provide clean water in Congo and Zambia this year.
Messenger, who is also an Oakville resident, said he has personally also taken part in the dip for the past 17 years.
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