The snowy, icy start to the new year didn’t deter some 2,000 souls from keeping with tradition Sunday, as they marked the start of 2017 with by taking – or watching – a mad dash into the frigid waters of Semiahmoo Bay near the iconic white rock.
Largely clear skies and a temperature of -1 C graced the 47th annual event, which was hosted by the Peninsula’s five Rotary clubs.
As with tradition, many participants donned costumes or hats for the chilly occasion; safety polar bear, Rocky, was on-hand, as was abominable snowmen, Frosty and Flurry. Even Princess Leia turned out for the frivolity.
Members of the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue Unit 5 (Crescent Beach) crew kept a close eye on participants’ safety, both on the water and from the shoreline, as more than 60 volunteers pitched in time and effort to bring it all together.
Organizers also celebrated the return of some “Polar Plunge” royalty, including swim co-founder Denise Stevenson – who was the guest grand marshall for the occasion – and fellow alumnus Robyn Miller.
(Aerial photo Elijah Johnson/Big Guns Productions, slideshow photos Lance Peverley)
Big Guns Productions video
Blue Jamb Media video
