Close to 90 brave souls dipped a lot more than just their toes into Georgian Bay’s frigid waters on New Year’s Day.
According to the Tiny Township Lions Club, this year’s polar bear dip at Balm Beach attracted 88 “brave dippers.”
“Every single penny you raised or registered with will go directly to the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides to provide a dog free of charge to a Canadian living with a disability,” the club said while adding a big thank you to Lion Bob Murray, "one of our biggest supporters!"
Local resident Rob Johnston also thanked township councillor/firefighter Steffen Walma and the rest of the Tiny Township fire department who stood in waist-deep water to make sure everyone was able to celebrate the New Year's Day dip safely.
And while 88 took the plunge this time around, many watched from the beach in seeming amazement at the participants’ fortitude. Crowd favourite Marley, who is Mayor David Evans' best friend, even carried her own leash as she made the trek back to shore after her cold-water swim.
Joked Judy Charlebois: “Congratulations. A lot of people much braver than I, but I find Georgian Bay cold in the middle of summer.”
Those participating were required to contribute a minimum $25 pledge with all proceeds going towards the dog guide program.
While this year’s final tally is still being calculated, the total's expected to come in close to past events that raised more than $5,000 for charity.
