Polar bear dips return to SLO County this year — despite COVID, deadly shark attack
Despite an surge in COVID-19 cases and a fatal shark attack in Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo County’s two local Polar Bear dip events will be held this New Year’s Day as planned, and event organizers are looking forward to their return after cancellations last year.
The 42th annual Carlin Soulé Memorial Polar Bear Dip in Cayucos will be held at its traditional time at noon Saturday.
Event coordinator Brendan Fritzsche said he expects a good turnout and sunny weather.
“Last year we didn’t have an official dip, and I think even with COVID still going on, it’s an outdoor event and people can take precautions by staying within their family groups and then jumping in the water all together,” Fritzsche said.
Fritzche said he expects typical participation with a couple thousand people attending.
Usually about half jump in the ocean in celebration of the new year and as a form of rejuvenation, he said.
The event will include a costume contest and music.
Safety officials will be on hand with Harbor Patrol in the water, rescue swimmers, Cal Fire representatives and lifeguards. Cal Fire will operate a jet ski in case of any emergency.
In the wake of the Dec. 24 shark attack that killed Sacramento resident Tomas Butterfield off Morro Strand State Beach, some may be concerned.
But Fritzsche said having the jet skis and the watercraft in the vicinity should be a deterrent, creating unnatural commotion in the water that sharks tend to avoid.
He also noted that the event has taken place for four decades without any issues with sharks.
Commemorative T-shirts designed by Cayucos Elementary School students will be available.
“Proceeds of shirt sales cover event costs and local Cayucos Chamber flagship events,” the chamber said on its website.
Avila Beach dip
In the South County, the Avila Beach Polar Beach Plunge will celebrate its 10th anniversary.
Co-organizer Carl Geihs said the event starts at noon as well, and it’s returning after last year’s official cancellation.
Those who make a $20 donation supporting Friends of 40 Prado, which has helped the homeless since 1997, will get an event-themed T-shirt.
Geihs started the plunge with his friend Alan Raul, and it has grown over the years.
“Be bold, get cold” is the dip’s motto.
Like the Cayucos event, it’s permitted and will have emergency personnel on hand, Geihs said.
“The temperature of the water is going to be about 55 degrees,” Geihs said. “It should be perfect conditions.”
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