The Coney Island Polar Bear Club is the oldest winter bathing group in the country. However, this year's annual New Year's Day swim takes on a special significance after Superstorm Sandy badly damaged Coney Island and its famous boardwalk.
Money raised from the swim will go to a non-profit called "Coney Recovers".
"What we're aiming to do with the funds raised in partnership with the polar bear club is to help out not-for-profits in the area, help out residents and businesses with access to information and resources," said Nate Bliss of Coney Recovers.
As for the arctic athletes - each has their own strategy for diving into the frigid waters. After a few minutes of psychological gamesmanship, it is time.
The army of self-proclaimed "polar bears" runs towards its nemesis – the ocean.
Another new year, another plunge.
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