Defying the three-degree weather and icy winds, more than a hundred swimmers who couldn't wait for the 2023 beach season stormed the waters in Nelson's Lakeside Park on Sunday for the New Years' Day Polar Bear Swim.

The event, which has been put on hold for the past two years, was put on by Kootenay Co-Op Radio and the Kootenay Lake Stewardship Society.

"I'm thinking warm thoughts," said one man before the signal sounded, sending the crowds bolting for the water, past the Polar Bear mascot, who cheered the swimmers on.

For those who did not immediately turn around upon feeling the rigid temperature of the water, some felt the regret when returning to their towels, as a cold wind set in. Others, swearing by the health benefits of cold plunges, seemed unbothered by the cold.

20 sponsors and 20 volunteers helped to put this event together.

'I love it here! I'll do it again!' – KCR News reporter John Rune among the 2023 Polar Bear swimmers