The Polar Bear Swim: A Rude Awakening

27 January 2022Jim Ganley

Well, Brentwood, the time has finally arrived. Everyone’s favourite (or least favourite) school event has come and gone, and it was as memorable as ever. The Polar Bear Swim, an annual tradition, consisting of the bravest members of the student body throwing themselves into the icy Pacific in the middle of January, is always a highlight. This year, being the first event of Spirit Week, the Polar Bear Swim had a little extra pressure, but it most certainly delivered.

Shivering students were greeted by a beautiful sunrise as they trudged their way down to the docks at 7:45 on Saturday morning. Then, house by house, students walked, ran, or were carried to the docks where they jumped, dove, or were thrown into the freezing, and I mean freezing, ocean. The shock that blasts through one’s body after they are engulfed by that water is a uniquely terrifying experience. Nevertheless, our Brentwood students prevailed, before rushing towards the boathouse where they graciously accepted some hot chocolate to counteract the oncoming hypothermia.

Aidan L, Whittall ‘25, who was experiencing his first-ever Polar Bear Swim as a new student, was hesitant going into it: “At first I really didn’t want to do it, but due to the house spirit and encouragement of my housemates, I forced myself to jump in. When the time came and I lept, it was very refreshing and I left feeling very accomplished.”

Aidan had a very different experience than Polar Bear Swim veteran Cam M, Whittall ‘22, who knew what he was getting himself into: “This was my last Polar Bear Swim so I made sure to take it all in and embraced the cold.”

And with that, Spirit Week is off and away, so look forward to many more activities in the coming days.

Will P, Whittall ‘22

Where Students Choose To Be