ESWIM Takes the Polar Bear Dip

On January 1st, our High Performance group kicked off the new year in true ESWIM fashion, by stepping well outside the comfort zone.

At noon on New Year’s Day, ESWIM swimmers joined Head Coach Marc Spackman and the LOST Swim Team for a Polar Bear Dip in Lake Ontario. With air temperatures well below freezing and water hovering just above zero, it was cold, bracing, and unforgettable.

More than a stunt, the dip was about mindset. Choosing challenge. Showing courage. Starting the year with a shared experience that demanded commitment, resilience, and a bit of humour.

Moments like these matter. They build connection, toughness, and perspective, qualities that carry directly into training and racing.

You can find video highlights of the cold-water experience on our ESWIM Instagram channel.

A bold/cold start to 2026.

Go ESWIM 🔴⚪️🔵