Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – Mexican open-water swimmer Stephanie Montero Bending recently demonstrated extraordinary athleticism and a deep commitment to ecological well-being. On May 2nd, she successfully completed a challenging 43-kilometer swim over 15 hours, traversing the waters from Isla Isabel National Park to El Sesteo Beach within the Marismas Nacionales Biosphere Reserve in Nayarit.
This impressive feat was undertaken as part of the third edition of Nado por las Ballenas (Swim for the Whales) initiative, a heartfelt endeavor aimed at increasing awareness and generating crucial funds for the conservation of humpback whales and the diverse marine ecosystems of the Mexican Pacific.
Montero’s ambitious route connected two significant protected areas, both teeming with a rich array of marine inhabitants, including majestic whales, playful dolphins, delicate coral reefs, and numerous species of birds. More than just a test of physical endurance, her swim served as a powerful symbol highlighting the need for the protection of these invaluable natural habitats.
Stephanie Montero, who has been the president of the Nado por las Ballenas Civil Association for the past two years, understands the strength and remarkable stamina required for open-water swimming. Her organization channels the funds raised to support dedicated environmental protection groups, allowing them to concentrate on their vital work without the constant worry of securing financial resources.
Since its inception in 2023, Nado por las Ballenas AC has built strong partnerships with over 120 organizations, collectively raising nearly two million pesos to bolster marine conservation efforts.
During a press conference in Puerto Vallarta following her inspiring swim, Montero announced eight specific projects that will receive support from the funds generated by her voyage. She emphasized her primary goal: to empower environmental organizations to focus on their essential tasks, free from the distraction of continuous fundraising.
The supported initiatives include crucial work such as rescuing entangled whales and preventing vessel collisions, in collaboration with Ecobac; diligent monitoring of whale sightings; the removal of destructive ghost nets, in partnership with WWF Mexico; the monitoring and restoration of coral reefs, with support from CUCosta; the promotion of reduced plastic consumption through the Bahía Cero project; and the advancement of conservation efforts for the Isabel Island protected natural area.
Notably, Montero expressed particular enthusiasm for environmental education programs aimed at engaging children and adolescents, recognizing the importance of fostering environmental stewardship in future generations.
Montero also highlighted supplementary actions integral to her initiative, such as organized beach cleanups, the formal demarcation of the Isabel Island natural area boundaries, and the integration of robust environmental education as a fundamental aspect of her work.
With evident enthusiasm, she announced her plans for future swimming challenges, each one intrinsically linked to supporting vital environmental conservation causes.
The athlete’s inspiring efforts have garnered significant support from the Puerto Vallarta and Bahía de Banderas Business Association (AEBBA), alongside numerous environmentally conscious companies and entrepreneurs.
Previously, in 2023, Stephanie swam an impressive 37.5 kilometers across Banderas Bay over 14 continuous hours, successfully raising over half a million pesos for the protection of marine mammals ensnared in fishing nets.
Between May 20th and 26th, 2024, she undertook the demanding “Vuelta a la Bahía de Banderas” (Round the Bay of Banderas) swim, covering an astounding 120 kilometers with the same noble objective, showcasing incredible physical and mental fortitude.
Since its founding in 2023, the Nado por las Ballenas AC association has cultivated alliances with more than 120 organizations, successfully raised nearly 2 million pesos, and contributed directly to the rescue of 13 entangled whales. Furthermore, their efforts have led to the installation of 11 coral nurseries, the provision of environmental education programs in both Nayarit and Jalisco, and active participation in organizing the First International Trash Fishing Tournament.
Stephanie Montero’s ongoing dedication exemplifies the powerful impact of individual action in safeguarding our precious natural world.