A crowd of over 100 spectators and plungers gathered at the East Boothbay public boat launch on Sunday for the YMCA’s 19th annual Penguin Plunge. More than 30 plungers made their way into the winter waters of Linekin Bay. Water temperature was 46F and air 49F at the time of the splash on a bright, sunny, New Year’s Day.

The event raises funds for free swimming lessons and water safety programs for all second graders, in partnership with the local schools. Lauren Brown, physical education teacher at Boothbay Region Elementary School and former swim instructor at the Y, reported that all second graders participate in the program.

Because the community lives near many water sources, the school and Y believe every child should learn to swim, Brown said; this fundraiser helps remove any financial barriers.

“Thanks for bracing the cold water and supporting the Y and kids’ swim lessons,” David Washburn, YMCA aquatics director and event organizer, said.

This year, the Penguin Plunge recognized school principals Shawna Kurr (BRES) and Tricia Campbell (Boothbay Region High School) – who were both there – and school nurse Kate Schwem for their continual support of the community and its children.

All swimmers did a full immersion, some taking a quick dunk, others lingering in the water. Onlookers offered encouragement and warm, dry towels. The Little Dippers, a swim club that swims daily at Hendricks Head Beach on Southport, were there to swim to raise funds for Y swim programs.

Boothbay first responders supervised the frigid dip. Officer Larry Brown offers special thanks to the firefighters for arriving early to clear the path for the swimmers, removing seaweed, logs and other debris from the ramp.

Not including pre-registrations and continued online donations, Y organizers collected over $1,500 in pledges the day of the event, Washburn said.

The plunge is over, but fundraising is not. If you would like to opt for a warmer, dryer way to give, donations are accepted at the Y’s Membership Desk or at www.boothbayregionymca.org. There are also a few event T-shirts still for sale.