SURF CITY, NC (WWAY) -- Thousands of people started 2014 off nice and refreshed by jumping into the Atlantic Ocean in Surf City at the 12th Annual Dolphin Dip.
"It's the start of a new year," Malik Simmons said. "Got to start out fresh."
Brian Moxey started the Dolphin Dip.
"I like to think of it as a challenge," he said. "If you do something by noon on New Year's Day you didn't think you could, then that helps your other resolutions seem more
attainable."
For some, the most daunting part of the whole experience is not the chilly water
"The worst part of it is waiting to get into the water," Doug Davis said.
Experienced dippers have advice on how to do it.
"Just run and go," Zoe Howard said.
"You have to put your head under," Davis said.
"Just go for it," Moxey said.
"Run in and then maybe just jump around," Grace Caladadetscher said.
The MC told participants that the water temperature was 74 degrees. Turns out it was actually 54.
"It took my breath away," Chanda Fiskin said.
All the money raised at today's event will go to benefit Hope for the Warriors.
