Thousands brave the ocean for the 25th Annual Penguin Swim

OCEAN CITY, Md. – Thousands of people dressed in all kinds of crazy costumes diving into the new year in Ocean city Tuesday for the infamous Penguin Swim.

“Today is all about the community getting together to start off the year and doing something for one of the most important institutions in our community which is Atlantic General Hospital,” exclaims Michael Franklin, President and CEO of AGH.

It’s an event that gets people out and moving on day one of the new year and a tradition that brings smiles to everyone’s faces.

“I love all these people coming out here to support the hospital, this is awesome. I love it so much,” says Ashley Parker, a long-time participant.

Another swimmer, Barbara McGinley, says, “It makes you feel good. I mean you’re starting out the year with a good feeling and a good sense of accomplishment.”

One spectator, Lacey Murray adds, “I’m so glad it was much warmer on them this year because last year it was freezing and to do it for such a good cause and it’s amazing that they want to get out there and do it I don’t think I could ever do it.”

That’s why this fundraiser gets bigger and bigger every year, because of the smiles, goofy costumes and laughs.

Smiles that bring the community just a little bit closer and gives AGH the opportunity to continue providing services to them.

“It means a lot because so far it’s raised about $1.4 million for the hospital and for services we provide in the community and that means a lot for the community because it gives us the resources to do what we need to do for the community,” adds Franklin.

Tuesday’s event raised just under $50,000.