Tulsans Take Polar Bear Plunge

By Emory Bryan, The News on 6

TULSA, OK -- The obvious question is why? For most, the answer was, 'Why not start a New Year by jumping into icy water?'

Runners World gathered a group of willing "Polar Bears" to take the plunge. The News On 6's Emory Bryan went to the crazy tradition in Tulsa.

This is not a plunge for people unwilling to look foolish and nearly freeze in the process. There were 120 runners who took part in the 2010 Polar Bear Plunge - a short run - and a double dip in ice cold water.

"We ran a half mile, through a pool, under a rope so you had to get your head wet, and that was the hard part, getting out running the rest of the way to get in the river," said Steve Reynolds, Polar Bear.

The muddy water of the Arkansas was 40 degrees as they plunged in, went under and staggered out.

"Well, you know, it's one of those things when you're doing it you ask yourself why, but then you only live once," said Matt Hancock, Polar Bear.

After they came out of the cold water - into the cold air - the feelings were wide ranging.

"My body, I don't know what happened, I got really hot all of a sudden, and whew!" said Isaiah Holland, Polar Bear.

One man in green thought his suit may shed the water and keep him warm.

"I thought it might, but it soaks up the water really well and that's no good, it's really cold," said Taylor Harmon, Polar Bear.

Despite the cold, despite the look, most said they would be back - next New Years.

"It was a little chilly, it's a whole lot better now that it's over," said Reynolds.