The annual "Plunge for a Purpose" is now an Asbury Park tradition.
ASBURY PARK -- Call it perfect swimming weather for charity.
The "Plunge for a Purpose" was held outside the Convention Hall again this year, attracting hundreds of participants.
The Atlantic Ocean was a very chilly 48 degrees - just two degrees cooler than the air temperature.
A non-profit group, the Sons of Ireland, organized the polar dip to raise funds for two charities:
Stephy's Place is a support center for grief and loss in Red Bank.
Shore House, in Long Branch, helps people dealing with mental illness.
As for the polar plunge participants, they showed different styles. Some went slowly, acclimating themselves to the frigid waters. Others, however, ran hard and dove right in, the quicker to get it over with.
Ed Murray may be reached at emurray@njadvancemedia.com. Follow Ed on Twitter at @EdMurrayphoto. Find NJ.COM on Facebook.