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VIDEO & PHOTOS: Chilly way to start 2019 in Mission

Two separate polar bear swims were held on New Year’s Day
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At 1 p.m. on New Year’s Day, about 60 revelers charged into Stave Lake for the annual Polar Bear Dip. Just before the scheduled swim time, the sun came out and the temperature climbed to a respectable four degrees Celsius. / Bob Friesen Photos

It was a really cool way to start 2019.

There were two local polar bear swims on New Year’s Day in the Mission area.

The larger one took place at 1 p.m. at Stave Lake as about 60 revelers ran into the water as part of the yearly tradition.

Just before the scheduled start time, the sun came out to raise the temperatures to an almost ‘bearable’ four degrees Celsius.

The other local swim took place at 11 a.m. at Hayward Lake.

Originally organized as a fundraiser for the Mission U11 Girls Soccer Team, the swim became a free event with 16 hardy souls braving the chilly waters, and 50 more well wishers cheering them on.

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Although the Mission U11 Soccer Team had to cancel their fundraising effort, the 11 a.m. Polar Bear swim at Hayward Lake proceeded with 16 hardy souls braving the chilly waters, and 50 more well wishers cheering them on. / Bob Friesen Photos
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