The third annual Exercise Like the Eskimos attracted several dozen crazed swimmers and nearly 1,000 smarter spectators for the 1999 plunge into the frigid Atlantic Ocean in Bethany Beach, Delaware on Jan. 1, 1999.

With water temperatures in the 40s and air temperatures in the upper 20s to low 30s, the event sponsored by the Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce brought individuals and team swimmers to Bethany at high noon.

Following an ocean rescue demonstration by the U.S. Coast Guard helicopter team, the swimmers disrobed down to their trunks, one-pieces, bikinis, and even Speedos® and ran headlong into the freezing water. Then ran out faster, looking for towels, bathrobes and warm hugs.

Proceeds from the Eskimo swim benefit the chamber's scholarship fund.

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