Watch Ponies Go for a Swim Off Virginia (Added on 7/28/06)

By Jerry Walsh

Story Created: Jul 28, 2006 at 10:22 AM EST

Story Updated: Jul 28, 2006 at 12:36 PM EST

Wednesday was pony-penning day off Virginia’s eastern shore.

Every year, the wild pony herd of Assateague Island is rounded up and taken across the channel that separates the tiny island from Chincoteague, Virginia.

Since 1925, Chincoteague’s fire department has sponsored the swim and following pony auction and carnival.

Initially, the pony auction was held to raise money for new fire equipment, but over the years, the auction has helped keep the herd's numbers healthy and manageable.

Tens of thousands of spectators head to the small coastal town each year to watch the swim of between 150 and 175 ponies.

Chincoteague's pony penning day was made world famous in Marguerite Henry’s book "Misty of Chincoteague."

Misty, a real life pony lived with Henry while she wrote her novel and later was the subject of a Hollywood movie by the same name.

After the herd arrives in Chincoteague, they are examined by equine veterinarians and allowed to rest for a couple days before the auction.

Those that remain are taken back across the channel and allowed to roam freely for another year on Assateague Island.
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