Saugeen Shores Aquatics Supervisor, Shanna Reid taking part in her first Polar Bear Dip last year. Due to the ice build up in Lake Huron, the 2016 event saw athletes jumping into the frigid water from the dock rather than running in from the beach.

Hub Staff

Athletes from Saugeen Shores Lifesaving Club (SSLC) will soon feel the chill of Lake Huron during their annual Polar Bear Dip, February 20 at the Port Elgin Main Beach. Getting underway at 10 a.m. the event will see the award winning lifesavers run from the snow covered beach and immerse themselves fully underwater, all in the name of good fun and to raise money for vital lifesaving equipment and athlete training.

Organizer, SSLC Coach and Saugeen Shores Pool Coordinator Michael Hundt said adjustments may be made depending on weather but they have more kids than ever involved for the 2017 Dip.

See Taking the plunge: 2016 Polar Bear Dip

“This year we’ve opened it up to some of our 13 to 15 year olds, all with their bronze medallion and they’re super excited to jump. There’s been less arm twisting than usual and usually we don’t have much arm twisting,” said Hundt, adding that the swimmers enjoy the challenge. “Being able to have bragging rights over those who are too scared of cold water to get in.”

Hundt said there are many Saugeen Shores Lifesaving Club athletes collecting sponsors around town for the event but if anyone wishes to make a donation, they can also contact the Centennial Pool directly at 519-832-2627.