Hundreds Take Icy Plunge Into Boston Harbor

The L Street Brownies, a polar bear swim club, made their annual jump in South Boston, raising money for local charities.

Hundreds of people in Boston are diving into 2015 in a big way - an icy jump into Boston Harbor with the L Street Brownies.

"The water's better than the air, so it's going to be great," said Dan Cavanaugh.

Close to 600 people replaced their coats with bathing suits and creative costumes to participate in one of Boston's longest New Year's Day traditions.

The L street Brownies is a polar bear swim club that has been jumping into the water on the first of every year since 1904, raising money for local charities.

"It causes you to think and be refreshed," said Patsy Williams.

"It's almost like a renewal," said 85-year-old Dorothy Kerzner. "It's like being baptized."

This is Kerzner's 44th year being a part of the polar plunge. She credits the cold water with keeping her young.

"You start the new year with a new frame of mind, and you're ready to go," she said. "It's like taking a supervitamin."

For these brave swimmers, the tradition is something they look forward to each year - whether it's to feel refreshed or for other reasons.

"Bragging rights for another year," said Cavanaugh. "That's what it's all about."

They'll be back again next year.

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