I’ve heard of The Polar Bear Plunge and even seen clips of footage on the local news … bet never thought I’d attend the event.  In all honesty, I’m usually not even out of bed before noon on New Years day.  I’ll be honest.  In the past, there has been a 50% chance that I’d be nursing a hangover on January 1st.

This year, things were different.  I received a call a month or so ago, asking if I had any availability on New Years day.  I said sure…. what do you have in mind?  This is when I was told the Boise chapter of “Make A Wish” was looking for a local photographer to cover an event.  They were hoping I would be willing to drive a little outside of Boise, brave the cold temperatures and photograph The Polar Bear Plunge.  Although I don’t like cold weather I  said “heck yeah”.  I mean… why not?  First of all, I would be helping to support a great cause.  Making wishes come true for children.  Second,  what a great opportunity to be the official event photographer at  a completely unique event…. full of CRAZY people. It’s one thing donating money to a cause, and another to jump into freezing cold water.

It was a great way to start my 2017

I showed up to Spring Shores Marina a little before 10 am and the plunge was scheduled to start at 11 am.  It was frigid out!  Temperatures were in the teens, but I showed up prepared.  Multiple layers of clothing, gloves, boots, hat… the works.  Plus of course, I had my camera and gear in tow.  I spent the morning walking around taking photos of the event setup, talking to strangers and taking photos of people having a good time.  It was a great way to start my 2017.  So many kind souls, gathered in one location to give to children.  I can proudly say I’d photograph it again.

Thanks Boise for keeping it fun!

          

The rescue crew started the day early.  Ice needed to be broken so participates could submerge themselves into the icy waters.

Onlookers and participants show up early to not only register…. but scope out the best plan of attack for their plunge.

Onlooker watch as the ice is broken and the plunge area is prepped for the big event.

Costumes are a huge part of the day.

KTVB’s Larry Gebert was once again the MC of the event.  Plus he had the special privilege of being the first personto get to submerge himself in the icy cold water.

And they’re off!  The race to jump into the icy waters begins.  These people can now say they have taken the Polar Bear Plunge!

COLD!!!   COLD!!  COLD!!!

VICTORY IS MINE!!!

This man completed the Polar Bear Challenge and stopped for a photo.