Unusual Winter Sports: Polar Bear Plunges!
By Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw
Amongst the most unusual Winter Sports are the so-called polar bear plunges, the most popular of which is held in Korea.
It takes place each January in Busan in the South of Korea and involves local people plunging into the freezing cold water of the |Korea Strait in their swimsuits.
This event has been held annually since 1988 at Haeundae Beach.
The competitors run 10 metres across the sand, leap into the icy water and then swim 80 metres towards the finishing line. Although it is technically a race, it is more a Korean way of welcoming good health in the New Year and spreading good cheer!
Other polar bear plunges take place in many other countries around the world, including the United States, especially the largest one which is held at Sandy Point State Park in Maryland, and the United Kingdom, including ones held in the sea at Brighton on Christmas Day and on the Isle of Man held on New Year’s Day.
There is also one held in Antarctica in late December. In fact, it is a rite of passage for scientists and visitors to the New Zealand Scott Base there.
Whilst all these plunges, which are usually held to raise money for charities, are, no doubt, exhilarating and healthy, one can think of other less extreme ways of being healthy and celebrating Christmas and the New Year!
Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw may be contacted by e-mail at ‘
