Opunake Beach could have been mistaken for Hollywood yesterday, as 24 hardy souls took part in the annual Polar Bear swim dressed as movie stars.
Willy Wonka, Paris Hilton and a large number of the cast of The Sound of Music – from the Lakeside Lions – all braved the chilly Tasman Sea at noon.
The "von Trapp family" sang songs and held hands as they bravely waded out into the water.
Doug Coxhead (78), dressed as Elle Macpherson, said he had taken part in every swim since it began in 1993.
"It seems like forever," he said.
He had hoped to be the oldest swimmer this year, but was beaten out of that spot by Val Wallace (80).
"It has always been good to get involved, get out there and get wet.
"Taking part is the big thing. It has been a good thing for Opunake," Mr Coxhead said.
Lions member Mrs Wallace, aka Friedrich von Trapp, said the swim was fun.
"I have to encourage this lot," she said.
The quick dip appeared to invigorate Mrs Wallace, who joked that she was off to find a toy boy while walking back up the beach.
Nobody stayed in the water for long.
Barbecued sausages and hot soup were ready when the swimmers got out.
Each swimmer received free entry to the film Ice Age 2 – The Melt Down at Everyone's Theatre for their efforts. 26/6/06
No comments:
Post a Comment