Brave souls gathered on the shore of Peninsula Lake on January 1, 2025, in support of Community Living Huntsville to welcome the new year with a cold dip.
The Huntsville Polar Bear Dip has become an annual tradition in support of Community Living Huntsville. The organization provides support and advocacy for individuals with developmental disabilities in north Muskoka.
How did the Polar Bear Dip start?
According to the Vancouver Polar Bear Swim Club, it is one of the largest and oldest Polar Bear Clubs in the world; it started in 1920 when a small number of swimmers took the plunge into English Bay on New Year’s Day. Led by their founder, Peter Pantages, a Greek immigrant, the swim has grown and become a popular event to welcome the new year.
When Peter Pantages was not able to swim in the ocean, he found other ways to make sure that he had a cool ‘dip’ every day. He even had an agreement with the Pacific Steamship Company, when he was traveling on an ocean liner, for the ship to stop every day so he could take a dip. When it was unsafe, he would draw a salted chilled bath instead, according to the Vancouver Polar Bear Swim Club.
Polar bear plunges, also known as cold water therapy or ice baths, are said to have many health benefits.
This fundraiser is open until January 31, 2025. You can make a donation HERE.
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