Although Vancouver's Polar Bear Swim technically went virtual this year, a few brave souls kept with tradition and jumped into the icy cold ocean water at English Bay on New Year's Day. The annual event usually draws thousands, but due to COVID-19, participants were asked to register and take a "digital dip" in cold water at home to claim a commemorative certificate. Due to COVID-19, participants were asked to register and take a "digital dip" in cold water at home to claim a commemorative certificate. It was founded by Peter Pantages in 1920 with a small group of swimmers in English Bay on New Year's Day. The temperature hovered around 8C Friday afternoon — warm, compared to the water, Bedidhe said.

Source: CBC News January 01, 2021 23:15 UTC