Sunday, January 01, 2012

Polar Swim: Great Canadian Chill

Shiver me timbers #Toronto - today is the day for Polar Bear Swims in Lake Ontario. I will be wearing my viking helmet with my brother Joe as we photograph the January 1st Sears Great Canadian Chill at Ashbridges Bay/Woodbine Beach. Stay frosty in 2012 my friend. The driving rain did not slow down the swimmers but it was nice to prepare in the heated tent. Money raised is used to support Sears Charitable Foundation which funds 17 pediatric oncology centres 'Stopping Kids Cancer Cold.'
It takes some courage to run into the cold waters of Lake Ontario, you can see the determination on peoples faces.
Then you experience the frigid waters and realize how cold it will be.
The DJ plays some great tunes while people get their costumes ready
Some vikings enjoy the warm temperatures of Ontario's lakes in the winter

See more Polar Swim pictures after the jump.


I stayed in the water, thigh deep, taking pictures during each wave of swimmers. I was very cold when I came in after the dippers were done.

The rescue people wore complete cold weather wet suits
The very first swimmer left splashes when he ran into the water
It was a great family event
Penguins, Hawaiian grass skirts and colourful wigs
Others are going out as the front group heads back to shore
The next wave heads in to the water

Great Canadian girls bikinis and thermal underwear


Penguins with top hats


The Great Canadian Chill Bear
Friends don't let friends Polar Swim alone
Families wait along the sidelines, trying to keep warm in their winter wear
The first group lines up outside the tent, ready for their sprint into the water

Gathering up her stray flip flops crocs
The swimmers go in groups, trying to keep their flip flops on and not fall before they are ready

Falling into the water just feet from the shore while blue barrel guy keeps upright



A penguin with a yellow nose and facepaint


Cooking smores over an open fire after the swim

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