SURF CITY, NC (WECT) – Many people start the New Year with a kiss and a cheer, but thousands of folks in Surf City rang in 2012 on Sunday by continuing a chilly tradition for a good cause.
This is the 10th year for the Dolphin Dip Extravaganza, which invited participants to take a dive into the cold ocean water for charity, and organizer Brian Moxey said the event grows every year.
When the dip first started, just 20 people participated. This year, he expected about 5,000 to participate.
"It's great fun to go into the cold water," said Moxey. "It feels great. It's a great way to start off the new year. You can accomplish something you didn't think possible by noon. It helps to make the rest of your resolutions seem more attainable."
Judi Hansen said she has only missed running into the sea one year, when she was in the hospital. She said this is one of the best dips so far.
"This is an awesome, awesome day for it," said Hansen. "We couldn't have asked for better weather."
She said the water wasn't too cold, but it was quite a shock for first-timer Len Haibt.
"The water's so cold," he said. "I barely got my toes in there earlier and came running out."
The money raised for the from the event went to benefit Hope for the Warriors, a non-profit organization that supports wounded service members and families of fallen soldiers.
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