Toronto’s balmy winter weather is sure to take the bite off of the second annual Sears Great Canadian Chill, a mid-winter swim in Lake Ontario that takes place on January 1, 2012 at Woodbine Beach in Toronto. This Toronto New Year’s Day dip will benefit research for pediatric cancer through the Sears Canada Charitable Foundation. You can sign up as an individual or as a team to participate in the swim, which includes collecting pledges for donations. Participants must arrive by 12 noon on Sunday, January 1, 2012 at Woodbine Beach, 1675 Lake Shore Blvd. E. in order to take part in the event. The minimum age for swimmers is 12, with signed consent from a parent or guardian for young persons up to age 18. No alcohol is permitted. [Contrary to popular belief, alcohol does not warm you up and in fact, quickens the onset of hypothermia]. Individuals wishing to donate may call 1.855.93.CHILL or visit the website. Volunteers are also required to assist with the event (no pledge collecting). Currently, the weather forecast for January 1, 2012 in Toronto is putting Florida to shame at 6°C.
