While some of the approximately 600 people who attended the annual New Year’s Day Polar Plunge in Southampton (Saugeen Shores) were dressed in full winter clothing, others chose to don bathing suits and take the plunge into the frigid waters of Lake Huron.
With a January 1st water temperature of 41 degrees Fahrenheit, or 5 Celsius, it was definitely a challenge and, for most, it was the quick-plunge method and then out again just as fast.
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The Saugeen Shores Fire Service volunteers also took to the water – although they were dressed in full water-rescue suits!
Spotted on shore
On shore, the Southampton Rotary Club along with Bearama had Tim Hortons’ hot chocolate waiting everyone.
The event organized by Larry Leonard and Jeff Cody, was also a food drive for the local Salvation Army Food Bank. “We’re really grateful for the response by the community once again,” said Food Bank Volunteer John Van Bastelaar, “and the organizers who included us. We collected 850 lbs. of food and over $600 in donations as well as some clothing donations to the Thrift Shop. What an amazing community.”
