Polar Bears gather in the Jubilee Pool to swim in the cold water

‘Polar Bears’ taking part in a five-month cold-water swim challenge gather on Penzance’s iconic lido today (Saturday, January 29th) for afternoon fun, plush outfits and freezing water.

People taking part in the Polar Bear Challenge sign up to swim multiple times or a certain distance outdoors in the cold water between early November and late March.

That Polar Bear Challenge run under the International Ice Swimming Association’s and the Channel’s Swimming Federation & Pilot’s clothing rules meaning that the only pieces of clothing allowed are one standard swimsuit and one standard silicone or latex swim cap.

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For those who shiver at that, there’s also the Penguin Challenge, where wetsuits are allowed.

The January Polar Bear and Penguin Gathering, held at the Jubilee Pool, is an opportunity for those who take up the challenge to meet and enjoy the chilly 9-degree seawater in the Art Deco outdoor pool, as well as the more luxurious 34-degree. in a geothermal pool.

In addition to some serious cold water swims, there’s also a costume parade and costume relay, before everyone heads to the hot tubs at the end of the afternoon to warm up.