The annual swim of the Ponies across the Assateague channel to Chincoteague takes place the last Wednesday of July. The event draws thousands of spectators who line the beaches across from Assateague Island. Some visitors arrive early and stay the week as activities are planned in conjunction with this swim Tuesday through Saturday. Many spectators take up their positions to achieve the best view as dawn breaks over the beach, at least 5 in the morning. Those arriving, like us, at 8:30 A.M., should bring binoculars to view the swim; you would otherwise know that the swim had "happened" but you wouldn't see very much. The enterprising owner of this beach front with a great view gets $10 per person for the privilege of setting down a chair or blanket and more leg room. It gets me at least a hundred feet closer, so I pay. I get a wristband, just like at a rock concert.
