Toronto Polar Bear Dip gets underway
Annual winter swim benefits Habitat for Humanity
If you're struggling to shake off the effects of New Year's Eve celebrations, perhaps a winter dip in Lake Ontario this afternoon is just the ticket.
The annual Polar Bear Dip — a benefit for Habitat for Humanity — got underway at Sunnyside Beach just after noon today. Swimmers can dip individually or sign up as a team.
The 2014 swim attracted more than 400 dippers and raised more than $50,000.
Habitat for Humanity builds affordable housing for families in need.
The beach is at Sunnyside Park, 1755 Lake Shore Blvd. W, Toronto. Registration opens at 11 a.m.
Oakville dip set for 2 p.m.
Another even larger dip event is the Courage Polar Bear Dip being held at 2 p.m. in Oakville's Coronation Park in support of World Vision Canada.
Last year's event marked the 30th anniversary of the dip and saw 734 participants brave the frigid waters for clean water projects in Rwanda, raising a total of $130,000.
The park is located at 1426 Lakeshore Rd. W. Teams or individuals can register today online or at the park at a cost of $25 per person.