Perkele

So far in my life, Fins have never fallen short in terms of craziness. Again, our brave eastern neighbours failed to disappoint by way of hairy bum display and other side branches to winter swimming.




In Finland, I am told people commonly cut holes in frozen lakes in winter in order to jump in and "cool down", as some would have it. I call it suicide, but I am fascinated by the spirit of their hobby, which was clearly stated by the no-comment poster placed outside the sauna at Tooting Bec Lido. Hairy bums go ice-dipping across a sheet of snow. And?

Below: Lovely Finnish competitors for the Water Performance at the 2008 World Winter Swimming Championships in London.