BIRCH BAY, Wash. — Thousands of people in Birch Bay are braving the cold on Thursday and trying to set a world record.
The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce, Blaine Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2, and Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism are trying to set a record for the largest Polar Bear Dip in the world.
The GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ attempt is happening at noon on New Year’s Day.
Over the weekend, the previous record held by Most, Czech Republic, with 2,461 participants —was officially broken in Norway by a group of very brave and very cold plungers.
The new record to beat is now 3,134 participants.
“Sure, the bar has been raised – but that only makes the challenge more exciting. Birch Bay isn’t aiming for “pretty good,” the goal is legendary,” a release from the chamber of commerce stated.
This will be Birch Bay’s 43rd Annual Polar Bear Plunge.
Here are the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ Guidelines that participants need to follow:
- Wear a swimming suit & shoes
- No costumes, wetsuits, or drysuits
- Enter the water when directed
- Remain waist-deep in the water for 60 seconds
- Exit the water when directed
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