There may only be a 10-degree difference between January 1 and the coldest day at the camp in the summer, but Ness Lake Bible Camp is ready to go for its 23rd annual Polar Bear Dip.
The money raised at the annual fundraiser will go towards helping kids come to camp in the summer whose families otherwise might not be able to afford it.
Prince George is amid record-setting temperature highs, Dayna Penson, Camp’s Program Director, said she thinks the dip will be the warmest one they’ve ever held.
“We checked the ice today, there is some clear ice and a crusty layer on top,” Penson said, guessing it was between 4-6 inches thick.
“It is fine for walking on and standing on, it would be a little scary to park a bunch of snowmobiles next to each other to watch.”
This means the hole in the ice for the dip will be in the same place it always is, but spectators may need to be moved more onto the shore.
Around 50 people have signed up to take the dip right now, but Penson thinks the warmer weather might be less intimidating for people signing up on the day of.
Everyone who takes the dip needs to either donate or raise at least $25 – Penson said there are prizes for top fundraisers and best costumes at the event.
“If you are crazy and want the experience, it is super unique and super fun to be able to say that you jumped into the lake on January first… if that is your kind of thing, because it certainly isn’t mine,” Penson said with a laugh.
The dip takes place on January 1st at Ness Lake Bible Camp, the event starts at 1:30 in the gym.
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