What is the Cullen Boxing Day Dook?
The Cullen Boxing Day Dook is an annual event that takes place in the coastal town of Cullen in Moray, Scotland. It involves dozens of brave participants who plunge into the icy waters of the North Sea on December 26, wearing costumes, swimsuits, or whatever they fancy. The event is organized by the Cullen Sea School, a community-led charity that promotes water sports, maritime heritage, and environmental awareness. The dook raises funds for various local causes, such as the RNLI, the Cullen Voluntary Group, and the Cullen Sea School itself.
How did the 2023 dook go?
The 2023 dook was a success, despite the cold and windy weather. According to the organizers, around 50 dookers took part in the event, cheered on by hundreds of spectators who lined the shore and the harbour wall. The dookers showed their creativity and humour by dressing up as characters from movies, TV shows, books, and games, such as Harry Potter, Star Wars, The Wizard of Oz, and Super Mario. Some also wore festive outfits, such as Santa Claus, elves, and reindeer. The dookers were rewarded with hot drinks, soup, and mince pies after their chilly dip.
Why do people do the dook?
The dook is not only a fun and festive way to celebrate Boxing Day, but also a meaningful and charitable one. Many dookers have personal reasons for taking part in the event, such as honouring a loved one, supporting a cause, or challenging themselves. For example, one dooker, Laura Hamilton, said she did the dook in memory of her father, who passed away in 2021. Another dooker, Samantha Green, said she did the dook to raise awareness and funds for mental health, as she suffered from depression and anxiety. The dook also fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among the dookers and the spectators, who share a common bond of braving the cold for a good cause.
What are the benefits of the dook?
The dook is not only beneficial for the local charities and causes that receive the donations, but also for the dookers themselves. According to some studies, cold water immersion can have positive effects on physical and mental health, such as boosting the immune system, reducing inflammation, improving circulation, enhancing mood, and relieving stress. Of course, the dook is not for everyone, and people with certain medical conditions or low tolerance to cold should consult their doctor before attempting it. But for those who are fit and willing, the dook can be a refreshing and exhilarating experience that can make them feel alive and invigorated.
How can you join the dook?
If you are interested in joining the dook next year, you can visit the Cullen Sea School website or Facebook page for more information and updates. You can also contact the organizers by email or phone to register your interest and get more details. The dook is open to anyone who is over 16 years old and can swim at least 25 metres. You can do the dook solo or with a team, and you can choose your own costume or theme. You can also set up your own fundraising page or donate to the general fund. The dook is a voluntary and non-competitive event, so you can do it at your own pace and style. The only rule is to have fun and be safe.
