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Pocono News Section
Polar Bear Bikers Take the Plunge
Polar Bear Bikers Take the Plunge - Tuesday, January 1, 2008 at 4:21PM EST
Reported by: Nicole Borocci
Tuesday, Jan 1, 2008 @04:21pm EST
MIFFLINBURG, UNION COUNTY - Raymond B. Winter State Park in Union County is the fitting site for a freezing fest.
It's a common practice this time of year by the brave Polar Bears, but this arctic plunge has a few twists.
Swimmers start out on bikes, trekking 13 miles uphill to their frosty destination.
With adrenaline pumping, these athletes strip down to their shorts for a quick, invigorating dip.
It's all done to benefit families of children with cancer.
"Yes, purposeful nuts," said participant, Jeff Bottiger.
Since 2004, the Blue Butterfly Fund has reached out to over 70 cancer patients with the help of the Polar Bear Ride and Plunge.
"We just kind of did it for fun, something to do on New Years Day. Now it has a lot more meaning," said Angela Haines.
Art teacher, Angela Haines is riding to support one of her students battling cancer.
Snow and slush kept some bikes on their racks, but even so, over two dozen athletes took part.
"The road conditions really weren't favorable for cycling, but I got good signs to keep it going," said organizer, Elizabeth Sterling.
"This year it literally took all the air out of you; it felt like there was no air in you whatsoever," said swimmer, John Maize.
"It's nice cause I'm completely numb, so I'm very comfortable right now,” said Carla Maize.
"You could just walk around in your underpants the rest of the day, but I hear that’s a sign of hypothermia," said Dave Decoteau.
For more information on the Polar Bear Ride and Plunge, visit or call 570-922-1608.
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