JUST CHILLING

Polar Bear Pirates take icy plunge

A record-setting 1,145 Pirates braved temperatures in the 40s Jan. 22 to jump into the icy waters of the outdoor swimming pool at East Carolina University’s Student Recreation Center.

In case the outdoor temperatures were not quite chilly enough for the 19th Annual Polar Bear Plunge, coolers full of ice were dumped into the pool to ensure an invigorating experience for all jumpers.

This event began in 1997 with only 35 participants, as a part of the grand opening week for the Student Recreation Center. Participation has grown each year with more than 700 plungers in 2010, 958 in 2011, and more than 1,000 in 2013 and 2014.

Food was available following the jump and T-Shirts were guaranteed for the first 1,100 jumpers. Students also had an opportunity to learn about ECU programs, activities and organizations through the Get A Clue involvement fair on the SRC basketball courts.

(Photos by Cliff Hollis)