Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – Building on Stephanie Montero Bending’s incredible solo swim around Banderas Bay in May, the Nado por las Ballenas (Swim for the Whales) initiative returns to Puerto Vallarta on December 7th with a brand new twist: a team relay race! This exciting event brings together eight Mexican open water swimmers, renowned for their skill and experience, who will lead six teams of six members each in this new great challenge.
The competition will see each team, led by a seasoned athlete, attempt to conquer the same six stages that Montero swam solo in May. Unlike the solo effort, however, this event will be a collaborative race, with all teams completing their sections simultaneously in a single day! The routes will showcase the region’s stunning beauty, stretching from Puerto Vallarta to Boca de Tomatlán and encompassing iconic locations like Punta Mita and Yelapa.
The routes and their leaders include:
Puerto Vallarta to La Cruz de Huanacaxtle: Jorge Villegas and Jaime Lomelín
La Cruz de Huanacaxtle to Punta de Mita: Nora Toledano and Arleen González
Punta de Mita to Chimo: Paulo Strehlke
Chimo to Yelapa: Carlos Franco
Yelapa to Boca de Tomatlán: Patricia Kohlmann
Boca de Tomatlán to Puerto Vallarta: Marcela De Niz
More than just a race, the “Swim for the Whales in Teams” signifies a significant milestone for the Puerto Vallarta-Bahía de Banderas region. It serves as a platform for showcasing Mexican open water swimming talent while raising awareness and crucial funds for marine conservation.
Each team will champion one of Swim for the Whale’s six environmental projects, focusing on issues ranging from responsible whale watching practices and coral reef restoration to ghost net retrieval and reducing ocean plastic. Their goal is to raise a combined one million pesos to support the health and vitality of Banderas Bay’s marine life. Donations can be made through the FONNOR AC website.
In addition to promoting conservation, Montero’s dedication to the cause has recently been recognized internationally. Her November 2023 swim from Marietas Islands to Las Gemelas Beach, a 37.5 km journey completed in 14 hours and 30 minutes, received certification from the Marathon Swimmers Federation (MSF), officially marking it as the first-known swim of this route and a testament to her commitment to both the sport and marine life conservation.
The “Swim for the Whales in Teams” promises to be a thrilling event brimming with athletic prowess and environmental responsibility. Mark your calendars for December 7th and cheer on these incredible swimmers as they champion both sport and ocean conservation!
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