The event was rain delayed about 20 minutes but around 100 swimmers showed up. It was the first time first time for swimmers to announce their wedding plans before their chilly plunge.
"We're going to get married so we thought what better way to start the New Year than to dive into ice cold water," said Phill Norrey from Cumming.
Wife to be Emily Baker, also from Cumming, agreed.
"I'm excited, I'm invigorated, I can't wait," she said.
The Polar Bear swimmers at Clarks Bridge Park who benefited the Lanier Canoe and Kayak Club needed web feet this year according to coordinator Tim Watson.
"This is the first time in the 14th annual event that we've ever had rain," Watson said.
The water temperature was around 45 degrees; swimmers emerged shivering and grateful hot tubs were just a few feet away. Hot chocolate and coffee and snacks were waiting inside the boat house and after everyone warmed up the awards were announced.
The "Welcome 2011 Family" took first prize for best costume. City Councilman George Wangemann, who showed up as the 'Polar Chicken', emceed the event. Billy Moffett took the 'best splash' first place award and Rusty Grindle was the best jumper.
The steady rain delayed but did not stop the swimmers from diving into the chilly water
The event was rain delayed about 20 minutes but around 100 swimmers showed up
The Polar Bear swimmers who dived in at Clarks Bridge Park to benefit the Lanier Canoe and Kayak Club needed web feet according to coordinator Tim Watson
http://accesswdun.com/article/2011/1/234959