HALIFAX – The New Year’s Day polar bear dip has become a tradition all across the country.
In Herring Cove, Nova Scotia, they have been doing the dip for 22 years.
“In 1994 they started. It was just a bunch of local Herring Covers; they just wanted to get together and jump in the water and it’s just been growing ever since,” said organizer Stephanie Finander.
Around 200 brave participants took part this year, jumping from the Herring Cove wharf into the frigid Atlantic Ocean in the dead of winter. One of those participants was 81-year-old Ernie Ross, who has been an expert at dipping in Herring Cove.
“No, I’m not nervous. My name is Ernie. I am 81-years-old. This is my 21st year for jumping,” said Ross.
Icy Water
But for more amateur jumpers, the icy water was a bit of a shock.
“I’m very cold,” said Piper Campbell.
“It hits you when you hit the water. I’m cold – so cold,” said another jumper.
Kicking off the New Year
The polar bear dip has been growing in popularity over recent years. Many say it’s a great way to kickstart a new year.
“It’s just good fun. You know, something to do to start the year off right,” said dipper Jared Smith.
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