Canadians celebrate with Polar Bear Dip

 

Hardy Canadians celebrated the New Year by taking a dip in the frozen Lake Ontario. Strong winds and freezing temperatures didn't deter them from their traditional New Year's Day ritual of jumping into the lake. About 750 people took part in the Courage Polar Bear Dip in Oakville, west of Toronto, on Wednesday.

The Oakville-based Polar Bear Dip has been running for 40 years. It's one of several events across the country that raise money for charity. People of all ages take part in the event. Eight-year-old Evelyn Gray was among the participants. Evelyn came with her father to take a dip in the frozen lake. World Vision Canada CEO Michael Messenger said the event is expected to raise about $100,000. He said the funds will be used to provide clean water to Congo and Zambia this year.