The water temperature was 34 degrees for the Sparta Elks' annual charity event Watch video
SPARTA -- Water temperatures of just above freezing and an impending nor'easter did not dissuade about a dozen polar plungers from their annual winter leap into Lake Mohawk.
Minutes before the noontime start, John Middleton was standing on the snow-covered beach, trying to stay warm, and explaining how was planning to wade in up to his waist.
"I'm not diving in," he said.
Sunday's event was the sixth annual plunge into Lake Mohawk, organized by Sparta Elks No. 2356 as a charity fundraiser.
Pete Appaluccio, the lodge's secretary, said plungers have endured tougher conditions, including one year in which volunteers had to cut through 16 inches of ice.
"This is pretty good. There's no ice that has to be cut," said Appaluccio, who also took part in the plunge.
The water temperature on Sunday morning was 34 degrees.
Sparta Mayor Gilbert Gibbs has participated in the plunge all six years.
On Sunday, Gibbs was wearing a 2010 Sparta High School soccer T-shirt, shorts and sneakers.
"Your feet get numb. That's the worst part," he said.
Gibbs went out further Sunday than others, jogged in until his chest was covered before quickly turning around and jogging out.
"You've got to be legit," he said.
Rob Jennings may be reached at rjennings@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @RobJenningsNJ. Find NJ.com on Facebook