Hundreds cross Charlotte Harbor's Peace River for July 4th Freedom Swim

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. (WINK) — For over three decades, one Southwest Florida tradition has started the Fourth of July with more than just patriotic spirit.

Hundreds of swimmers crossed Charlotte Harbor's Peace River in the annual Freedom Swim, a mile-and-a-half journey to celebrate America's birthday.

"I'm 69, and this is about the 10th time I've done this on the Fourth of July, and not only is it a great way to celebrate the Fourth, especially great to celebrate a 250 today," said Ray Moyer, a Freedom Swimmer.

First-timer Mason Asbell, who moved here from across the country, says the holiday swim lived up to the hype. Asbell was the first swimmer to make it across, completing the journey in 40 minutes, with his family following him by boat.

"You know, in San Diego, you would host something like this, and no one, no one would come out. So this is super cool to see, like the whole community, all age groups, coming out to do it," Asbell said.

The swimmers weren't alone. Kayakers and boaters surrounded the course, while crowds gathered along the shoreline at Fisherman's Village waiting to cheer at the finish line.

"Oh man, great turnout, a lot of excitement, a lot of patriotism on display. It's fantastic. Great, great way to start the day," Moyer said.

One harbor, one holiday and one tradition that keeps bringing people back to the water year after year.