This is the “uplifting” moment when dozens of swimmers plunged into an ice-cold lake together as part of a long-standing Christmas tradition.
The annual spectacle gathered this morning (December 25th) between 500 and 600 people at the wintry Blackroot Pool in Sutton Park.
Footage captured by a first-time viewer when spectators and swimmers alike were counting down excitedly until they jumped around 10am.
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Despite the cool outside temperature of 4 ° C, the participants took off their swim shorts and costumes to take the plunge.
Screams rang out in the park as they took their quick but refreshing swim, and some went as fast as they were in the water.
Many people use the annual event, which is not officially organized, as a good reason to raise money for their chosen charity.
Some were seen in costume, while many wore festive Christmas hats for the occasion.
About 500-600 people joined the festive tradition
Phillip Pool, who watched but did not participate in the swim, said it was “uplifting” to see – especially after the difficulties of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“It was a very exciting feeling to watch. It’s the first time we’ve been there and it’s very uplifting in this time we’re living in,” he said.
“I would say between 500 and 600 people there.”
The unusual tradition, which dates back to the 19th century, provides for swimmers to be warned not to drink or eat too much the day before, not to swallow the water and to remember that even in relatively warm weather, it is much colder will.
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