100th Chincoteague Pony Swim set for tomorrow morning

This year’s Chincoteague Pony Swim is shaping up to be historic and highly secure. As the iconic event celebrates its 100th anniversary, officials have announced new restrictions aimed at keeping crowds and ponies safe.

Due to a credible online threat, attendees can expect tighter security than ever. Coolers, umbrellas, and backpacks are now banned from viewing areas and event grounds. Only clear plastic bags and small clutches are allowed, and all items are subject to search.

Chincoteague officials urge visitors to arrive early and pack light to avoid delays.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Coast Guard has issued a temporary regulation closing parts of the Assateague Channel and surrounding waterways to unauthorized boats. From July 26 through August 1, only approved vessels will be allowed in the area. This is to ensure safety during the swim and increased marine traffic tied to the centennial celebration.

The swim itself is set for Wednesday, July 30, and is expected to occur between 7 and 9 a.m. at slack low tide with the pony auction the following day at 8 a.m. at the carnival grounds and the return swim on Friday. Low tide is predicted to be at 6:45 a.m. Wednesday, so the swim should be during the early part of the window.

With bigger crowds expected and new rules in place, this year’s event will look a little different—but the magic of the Chincoteague ponies remains the same.

WESR’s Allen Hamilton will be at the pony swim and the auction on Thursday providing updates of the activities beginning at approximately 6:30 a.m.