Many runners got 2005 off on the "right" foot at the 20th Annual New Year's Day run 5K and then went over to North Avenue Beach for the Polar Swim. Below are some photos from both events.

1. For many Chicagoans, the celebration didn't stop when the clock struck midnight -- an ambitious group gathered in Lincoln Park for the New Year's Day 5K Fun Run 11 a.m.

2. Though the race was not a timed event, Chicago's Emisael Favela put in an honest effort and was the first to complete the 5K course.

3. Oak Park's Lizzy Duffy also came ready to race, and she finished as the first female.

4. It was a great feeling to reach the finish line and stop the watch on the first run of the new year.

5. The calm before the storm. These brave souls await the start time of high noon before the Polar Bear Swim at North Avenue Beach in Chicago.

6. An then it was a mad dash into the icy waters of Lake Michigan.....

7. .....And after a quick dip, it was an even quicker retreat back to the beach.

8. This guy was pretty lucky -- the temp in Chicago was pretty toasty compared to the weather down on the South Pole.

9. The scramble didn't stop until all the layers of clothes were put back on.