The 87th Annual Polar Bear Swim at English Bay!December 21, 2006 (No. 99) - Bring in the first day of the year 2007 in style with a quick dip in English Bay during the 87th annual Polar Bear Swim on Monday, January 1st. Whether a swimmer or just a spectator, this annual swim at English Bay is a time-honoured tradition which is sure to draw an interesting crowd. To register for this free event be at the English Bay Bathhouse at 12:30 pm. Swim time is set for 2:30 pm. Random draws for prizes will take place from swim registration forms. Last year's Polar Bear Swim attracted just over 1560 "dippers" in the relatively mild water temperatures of 9.0 degrees Celsius or 48 degrees Fahrenheit. What conditions will this New Year's swim hold for the brave plungers? First organized by long time Vancouverite Peter Pantages in 1920, the Polar Bear Swim is now overseen by the Vancouver Park Board in cooperation with the Polar Bear Swim Committee whose membership also includes Basil Pantages, carrying on a long family tradition. Please Note!! - 30 - Contact: Park Board Aquatics staff member Glenn Schultz at 604-665-3418 for further information. The Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation maintains 200 parks and 40 major facilities throughout the City of Vancouver. The Park Board's mission is to provide, preserve and advocate for parks and recreation services to benefit people, communities and the environment. |
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