You’ll typically find two kinds of people at the annual New Year’s Day Penguin Plunge in Tiverton — the bold and the not so brave.

“I ask people, what group do you want to be in?" said Greg Jones, the organizer of the annual plunge held this Monday at high noon. "You are either huddled together, cold and shivering, on the beach, or running in the water laughing and shouting and having a great time. And most people say, ‘I think I’ll stay on the beach!’” 

Jones is the voice of experience. He brought the first Penguin Plunge to Grinnell’s Beach 12 years ago and has headed up the annual event sponsored by the Tiverton Yacht Club ever since. Donations from participants and spectators, which benefit the Tiverton Public Library, totaled $1,700 this year.

“It seems to me most everyone had a great time,” said Jones afterwards. “The Tiverton Yacht Club is happy to sponsor this and we’re thankful for all the donations for the library. It’s a good way to start the year.”

Monday’s event drew a crowd estimated at 300, with about 100 brave souls taking the plunge. With water and air temperatures hovering above 40 degrees, long-time plunger Raymond Melanson of Swansea said conditions were far more pleasant than what he’s experienced previously.

“I’ve been here when the fire department had to cut the ice. That’s when you know it’s cold, when you have to break the ice so you can go in. This isn’t too bad compared to other years.”

Purists say total immersion is important — if you are going to take the plunge, you should make sure the water covers you from head to toe.

Others, however, say a quick dip is totally acceptable. “Do it quickly. Get in, get out,” was the knowing advice from Tiverton Middle School student Brooke Rachupka, who along with three of her schoolmates enthusiastically took the plunge.

How did she feel afterwards? “I’m so cold, I can’t feel my legs,” Brooke said.

Despite the momentary discomfort, she and her friends did not miss a beat when asked if they’d be back next year. Could this be the start of a new annual tradition? In unison, four young voices responded with a resounding “Yes!”