It was cold, blustery and with the threat of snow squalls as hundreds gathered on the beach in Southampton (Saugeen Shores) for the annual New Year’s Day Polar Dip.
The event held each January 1st, tests the mettle of those who are brave enough to enter the frigid waters of Lake Huron all in support of the local Food Bank fundraiser.
At the beginning of the event, the Putnams, owners of the historic Walker House, presented a donation of $2,500 for the local food bank.
Southampton Rotary members were also on hand serving up free hot chocolate for everyone.
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Unlike those who were prepared to run into the waves of Lake Huron, hundreds of friends, family and general watchers who gathered on the beach were bundled in warm cold-weather clothes as Saugeen Shores firefighters were on shore and in the water to make sure everyone had fun with no medical incidents.
Ready and waiting for the plunge!
Once the thrill of freezing in Lake Huron was over, everyone began to run for ‘cover’-ups.
