Bathers Splash Into New Year With Ocean Swim off Coney Island

Hundreds of hardy swimmers rang in 2014 with a plunge into the icy sea off Coney Island.

Members of the Coney Island Polar Bear and Ice Breakers clubs and other brave bathers stripped down to their trunks or dressed in costumes for the annual New Year's Day splash Wednesday.

Some people hit the surf dressed only in bikinis or briefs. A group of guys wore bow ties and top hats, and others waved giant American flags. Temperatures were in the 30s. People screamed at the shock of the cold water.

Polar Bear Club President Dennis Thomas says it was a perfect day for a swim. His club has hosted the annual dip since 1903.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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