89th Annual Polar Bear Swim New Year's Day at English Bay Beach

December 23, 2008 (No. 72) - What better way to start 2009 than with a refreshing dip in English Bay? The 89th Annual Polar Bear Swim takes place at Vancouver's iconic beach at 2:30pm on January 1.

Brave swimmers have been plunging into the chilly waters of English Bay since 1920 and each year thousands converge on the beach to take a dip or watch those that do. Whether a first time Polar Bear swimmer or someone who's carrying on a decades-long tradition, everyone is welcome.

Registration is free and begins at 12:30pm at the English Bay Bathhouse. Swimmers and spectators are encouraged to come early to get a good spot. Swimmers should have a warm blanket or change of clothes handy and children must be accompanied by an adult. Dog owners are asked to leave their pets at home. A full list of safety tips and precautions as well as statistics from previous swims is available at vancouverparks.ca

Last year over 1,780 swimmers braved the 5 degree Celsius air and balmy 6.5 degree water.

First organized by Peter Pantages in 1920, the Polar Bear Swim is now overseen by the Vancouver Park Board in cooperation with the Polar Bear Swim Committee.

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Media enquiries: Glenn Schultz, Supervisor Beaches & Pools, at 604-665-3418 / 604-841-4816

www.vancouverparks.ca

The Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation maintains 220 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.