Vallarta Online / PUERTO VALLARTA, JALISCO.- The long-awaited Swim for the Whales Puerto Vallarta 2024 event returns with a clear objective: to raise funds for the conservation of the humpback whale and marine ecosystems in the Mexican Pacific. This December, 36 swimmers will face the challenge of completing a team swim around Banderas Bay, a challenge that not only highlights physical endurance, but also the importance of protecting marine life in this region.
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History and Purpose of Swim for the Whales
The Swim for the Whales was born as an initiative promoted by swimmer and activist Stephanie Montero Bending, who in May 2023 completed for the first time the “Round the Bay of Banderas”, swimming alone in a journey divided into six stages. Now, in 2024, this feat will be accomplished in a single day with the collaboration of six teams, each led by an expert swimmer committed to marine conservation. With the support of local figures, companies and organizations, the goal is to raise one million pesos, which will be allocated to six integral projects that promote the protection and recovery of marine resources.
Structure of the Challenge: The Bay Routes
The event will feature the participation of 36 swimmers organized into six teams, each led by an experienced swimmer. The routes to be covered are strategically assigned to cover the entire Banderas Bay, an area of rich biodiversity and home of the humpback whale. These are the teams and routes:
Jorge Villegas and Jaime Lomelín – Route: Puerto Vallarta to Cruz de Huanacaxtle
NoraToledano and Arleen González – Route: Cruz de Huanacaxtle to Punta de Mita
Paulo Strehlke – Route: Punta de Mita to Chimo
Carlos Franco – Route: Chimo to Yelapa
Patricia Kohlmann – Route: Yelapa to Boca de Tomatlán
Marcela De Niz – Route: Boca de Tomatlán to Puerto Vallarta
Each of these segments showcases the diversity and beauty of Banderas Bay, offering swimmers and spectators a reminder of the importance of preserving this ecosystem. This journey also gives visibility to the region’s rich marine fauna, from manta rays and dolphins to the iconic humpback whales that migrate to these waters each year.
Conservation and Fundraising Projects
One of the major drivers of this event is fundraising for six conservation projects, each focused on a vital aspect of marine preservation. Among them are:
Mi Bahía y Yo – Environmental education program that seeks to raise public awareness about the marine ecosystem.
Por Nuestros Corales – Project in collaboration with the UDG to protect and restore coral reefs in the Bay.
Enmeshed Whale Rescue – An initiative that collaborates with ECOBAC to free whales trapped in nets.
Ghost Net Recovery – WWF project that seeks to remove abandoned nets that harm marine wildlife.
Less Speed, More Lives – CONANP’s campaign to reduce the speed of boats in whale transit zones.
Zero Plastic – Project that promotes the cleaning of beaches and the reduction of plastic waste in the ocean.
This effort is possible thanks to the collaboration with FONNOR AC, which manages donations through the official website of the event and facilitates the participation of those who wish to contribute to this environmental cause.
An International Event: Recognition and Certification
Stephanie Montero’s passion for conservation has led the Puerto Vallarta Whale Swim to be recognized beyond Mexico’s borders. Her feat of crossing Banderas Bay in 2023 was recently certified by the Marathon Swimmers Federation (MSF), a prestigious organization that endorses open water swims internationally. This achievement not only highlights the quality of the event, but also its scope and professionalism, which attracts both local and international swimmers.
How to Participate and Support the Puerto Vallarta Whale Swim
For those who wish to support this cause, there are several ways to participate:
- Donations: Contributions are received through FONNOR AC on its website, where interested parties can make donations that will go entirely to conservation projects.
- Attend the Event: The date of the team swim will be December 7th. The community and visitors can attend and be part of this unique experience that promotes love and respect for the sea.
- Volunteering: There are opportunities for those who wish to actively collaborate in the event, supporting both logistics and dissemination.
Conclusion
The Swim for the Whales Puerto Vallarta 2024 is not just a sporting event; it is a call to action for the community and visitors who love and respect marine life. The conservation of the humpback whale and the ecosystems of Banderas Bay is a collective effort that requires commitment, and this event offers an inspiring way to contribute to that goal.
Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this cause. Join the Swim for the Whales and support the protection of the marine ecosystem in Puerto Vallarta. With your help, we can make a difference!
Resources and Links of Interest
Internal Links
Activities in Puerto Vallarta: Find out more about other activities in Puerto Vallarta that contribute to sustainability and marine conservation.
Events in Banderas Bay: Find out about upcoming events in Banderas Bay and enjoy the best the region has to offer.
External Links
FONNOR AC: To make donations and support the cause of marine conservation, visit the official FONNOR AC website.Marathon Swimmers Federation (MSF): Learn more about the Marathon Swimmers Federation ‘s standards and certifications for open water swimming.
Photo Gallery – Swim for the Whales Puerto Vallarta
