When I got the message from my editors this morning that they wanted me to cover the Natural Resources Council of Maine’s annual Polar Bear Dip and Dash at noon, I knew I had to try something different. I’ve covered one or more of these polar dips every year since I’ve been a working photojournalist. I bet I’ve shot more than 20 of them. I’ve shot them from the beach, from ladders, from a few feet out wearing hip waders. I’ve tried high angles and low angles. What I wanted today was a new angle.

So, I decided to go in with them. Was it cold? Yes it was. But it was also a blast and a great way to close out the year.

Between the 5k race and the plunge, they had about 200 people on hand. The NRCM said they’d raised $25,000, all told. Not too shabby, I’d say.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Polar dippers retreat from the cold water of Portland Harbor at the East End Beach at noon on New Year’s Eve while raising money for the Natural Resources Council of Maine. The annual dip and 5k race attracted about 200 people and was expected to rake in $25,000 for the non-profit. Troy R. Bennett | BDN

Polar dippers celebrate as they hit the cold water of Portland Harbor at the East End Beach at noon on New Year’s Eve, raising money for the Natural Resources Council of Maine. The annual dip and 5k race attracted about 200 people and was expected to rake in $25,000 for the non-profit. Troy R. Bennett | BDN