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White Rock Polar Bear Swim cancelled due to storm damage

Rotary club calls off annual event
14923300_web1_181217-PAN-M-polar-swim-2018-file
Costumes were prominent at the 2018 Polar Bear Swim, when an estimated 500 brave dippers took the plunge in White Rock. (File photo)

The annual White Rock Polar Bear Swim has been cancelled.

Rotary Club of White Rock announced on Facebook Saturday that the event was called off due to significant damage to the city’s pier and waterfront.

Past district governor Lindagene Coyle told Peace Arch News safety is “a major issue.”

“Due to the breakup of the pier, high winds and high tide, we are forced to cancel the January 1 Polar Bear Plunge,” Coyle said by email. “The City is not able to clear the beach before the 1st.”

“I am certain many people will show up as they have for decades, but it will not be a hosted event. We will have a great event next year at the 50th Anniversary (in 2020).”

The event is usually held on New Years Day.

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