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Argonauts

Argonauts Joe Eppele takes part in Toronto Polar Bear Dip

polar bear dip in toronto

No doubt a lot of you were feeling rough yesterday after celebrating the start of 2013.  The question is, how did you cope?  Whether its sleeping it off, taking a few aspirin or starting your New Year’s health kick, everyone will have had different ways of dealing with their hangover.

However, I’m guessing none of you decided to fight it with a dip into the icy waters of Lake Ontario.  As outrageous as this sounds, that’s exactly what hundreds of people did yesterday for the Toronto Polar Bear Dip, an annual event that has been raising money for various water projects around the world since 1995.

Just in case there’s any doubt as to how crazy you have to be to take part in the event, this should answer your question:

polar bear dip temperature

Amongst those participating were Argonauts offensive lineman Joe Eppele, along with former teammate Kevin Eiben and Greg Wojt of the Eskimos.  Here they are with the original Polar Bear dipper Gaye Courage*:

Joe Eppele, Kevin Eiben, Greg Wojt and Gaye Corage

* If, like me, you thought it was a typo or couldn’t possibly be her real name, note the media pass Ms. Courage is wearing around her neck.

And here’s the guys getting ready to go into the water.  Note the look of trepidation on their faces as they suddenly realise what they’re about to do:

Fortunately the guys survived and Eppele, who just signed a contract extension with the Argonauts, has committed to taking part again next year, complete with his set of antlers.  If you’re interested in taking part yourself, or just want to learn more about the event, click here to visit the website.

Photo credits: @kimrupnarain & @keiben

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