It was a typical January day on the North Olympic Peninsula, with overcast skies, temperatures in the low 40s and the beginnings of a rain shower.
A little more out of place were the more than 100 people – many in bathing suits – who gathered shortly before 10 a.m. at Hollywood Beach for the 19th annual Polar Bear Dip.
Another nine or so gathered about 10 a.m. for a similar purpose at Lake Pleasant in Beaver.
And scores more met outside the Nordland General Store for a plunge into waters off the dock there.
The Hollywood Beach batch nervously lined the shore as cold water lapped ashore. They sipped hot coffee and either wrapped themselves in towels or just jumped around to stay warm until the main event.
Two dogs didn’t seem to mind the cold water and drizzle, happily plunging in again and again after thrown sticks.
About 10 a.m. the countdown from five began and then about 80 hardy souls headed into the water to the hoots, hollers and nervous laughter of the onlookers remaining on shore.
A few brave souls ventured back in, twice, for the coveted “triple dip” designation.
“It’s rejuvenating. Yes, most definitely I’m doing it next year. Wow, that was an experience,” said Adrian Travers, a first-timer.
