But the water was so cold at yesterday’s St Clair Surf Life Saving Club Polar Plunge, Steve Wylie was forced to don some under his kilt, before he did what looked like the Highland fling into the frigid waters.
The 68-year-old, of Mosgiel, said he did it because he wanted to support the St Clair Beach community — and he firmly believed he was ‘‘tough enough’’ to do it at his age.
‘‘I wrestled for New Zealand for quite a few years,’’ he said as he flaunted his biceps and hairy chest.
‘‘You don’t get hairs like that sucking lollipops.
‘‘I’ve got Scottish blood — ice in me veins.
‘‘I’m not scared of the cold, mate.’’
In fact, he had been pāua diving the day before, so was already acclimatised to the cold water.
‘‘I know what I’m in for.
‘‘It’s going to be a lot colder today.’’
Mr Wylie was one of about 200 people who participated in the Polar Plunge, while several hundred more rugged-up people stood by, holding towels and jackets, ready to provide warmth for those coming back out of the water.
Michael Dow, also of Mosgiel, confirmed the water was ‘‘pretty cold’’, but when he exited, he was filled with a rush of endorphins.
‘‘I’ve been doing this for about 20 years now and I’ve gone in as different characters.
‘‘I just love it.
‘‘It was pretty cold today, but it’s for a good cause and you only do it once a year.
‘‘It’s a bit of a rush and it’s good fun.’’
