Winning is all about costumes, courage, and a little bit of chaos.
If you’ve ever watched River Hospital’s Polar Bear Dip and thought, “I could do that,” the answer is yes. And if you’ve ever thought, “I could do that better,” this might be your year.
As the Polar Bear Dip returns for its 36th year on Saturday, February 28 at the Bonnie Castle Resort and Marina, organizers are reminding the community that while the water is cold, the competition is warm, welcoming, and wide open.
Each year, dippers are recognized across six award categories celebrating creativity, enthusiasm, and fundraising success. Last year’s winners set the bar high, with Close Your Eyes and Say Yes taking home Best Team Dip Style, Greg Topping winning Best Individual Dip Style, Public Health Heroes earning Best Team Costume, “King” Smitty crowned Best Individual Costume, Cody 22 recognized for Top Team Donations, and Miranda Peters leading the way as Top Individual Fundraiser.
So how does one claim Polar Bear Dip glory?
First, the categories. Costume awards favor full commitment and creativity, whether you are dipping solo or as part of a themed team. Dip Style awards are all about the entrance, with dramatic flair, confidence, and group choreography encouraged. Fundraising awards are based on dollars raised and tracked online, giving participants more than one way to come out on top.
Judging takes place live at the event, with judges watching from the dock as dippers make their way into the icy St. Lawrence River. Fundraising totals are tallied separately, meaning a strong costume, a fearless plunge, or a determined fundraising push can all lead to recognition.
“The creativity and bravado people bring to this event year after year never ceases to amaze me,” said Stephanie Weiss, Executive Director of Development at River Hospital. “People show up with imagination, courage, and a lot of heart, and they do it all to support something bigger than themselves.”
This year’s judging panel brings a mix of community leadership, experience, and personality.
Meet the judges:
Patrick Murphy returns for his second year as a judge. A member of River Hospital’s board, Murphy is known for his passion for anything involving water, as evidenced by a well-documented tendency to own too many boats. He will be watching for good lines, strong buoyancy, and a confident approach to the plunge.
First time judge Bobby Cantwell joins the panel with a long history of community service, including serving as a Jefferson County legislator and as a board member of the 1000 Islands Charity Poker Run. Cantwell is expected to arrive by snowmobile and will be paying close attention to fundraising efforts and overall commitment. While there are almost no rules to the Polar Bear Dip, Cantwell will still be watching to see how well participants follow them.
Sue Rapant returns as a veteran dipper judge and brings a career educator’s eye to the event. As chair of River Hospital’s Philanthropy Committee, she will be looking closely at teamwork, coordinated costumes, and standout group energy, while also keeping an eye on the highest earning fundraisers.
Kelley Tiernan, CEO of River Hospital and a returning judge, brings serious winter credibility to the panel. A native of Waddington, Tiernan will be focused on safety first, making sure every dipper gets in and out of the water safely, while still appreciating style, spirit, and commitment to the cause.
Rounding out the panel is first time judge Dr. Elizabeth Duque. Dr. Duque brings a fresh perspective and a keen eye for teamwork. She is also known to be a strong supporter of matching costumes and coordinated group efforts.
Beyond bragging rights, the Polar Bear Dip supports a critical mission. Over 36 years, the event has raised more than $1.2 million for River Hospital, funding essential capital equipment upgrades. This year's funds raised will be used to purchase new monitoring systems for the Ambulatory Surgery Unit as well as monitoring upgrades in the Emergency Department.
“The impact of this event on the hospital is enormous,” Weiss said. “It directly supports the equipment our care teams rely on every day, and none of it would be possible without the dozens of volunteers who make this event run smoothly, safely, and joyfully. From our judges to our safety teams to our behind the scenes helpers, we are deeply grateful.”
Registration requires a minimum donation of $100, and participants must be at least 18 years old. Registration is available online in advance and on the day of the event from 10 am to noon, with the official dip beginning at 1 pm.
Whether the goal is to outdo last year’s winners, debut a bold new costume, or simply survive the plunge, one thing is certain. Creativity counts, courage is rewarded, and the judges will be watching.
For more information on how to participate or support a dipper, visit www.riverhospital.org or follow River Hospital on Facebook and Instagram.