Ambergris Caye Eco-Challenge Thanks

On behalf of the SPBA, but also personally I would like to thank the business community for their support of the Ambergris Caye Eco-Challenge. Elito had a vision over four years to create a race that would challenge the body and expand awareness. He created a race that takes participants kayaking 42 miles through the waters of Ambergris Caye. During this race the participants paddle through areas that are only accessible by kayak. They see parts of our eco-system that are often forgotten or ignored. These participants then return to share their experiences with their friends, family and the entire community. Through this we have all gotten more awareness about the importance of these areas.

Each year Elito, with of the help of Keira Forman from Hol Chan dedicates himself to making this event happen. He could not make it happen with out the support of the businesses and community of San Pedro. This year they had a total of 29 teams and for the first time ever we had teams that flew into Belize just to participate in the race. The Eco-Challenge was able to award over $14,000.00 BZ in cash prizes to the top three winners in the professional and amateur categories as well first and second for the women’s category. They also awarded numerous gift certificates to the teams for prizes like snorkel gear, dinners, bar tabs and hotel stays.

I would also like to thank all of the people that took the time to support the race by following along on the races and providing water and making sure that everyone was safe. This year we had incredible support from Josh (Seaside Real Estate), Chris (Sail Sports), Roberto (Ambergris Divers), Fitz (Jambel), Bacalar Chico Marine Reserve boat, Jody Leslie, Sueno Del Mar, The BDF, Dr. Zuniga and the staff at SEAduced… Marty O’Farrell who dedicated himself to documenting the race and Reef Radio for the minute by minute update.

Finally, though the aching muscles of the participants may not feel this way today, they are ALL winners and this race obviously WOULD NOT happen without them. Thank you Teams you all make San Pedro very proud.

Sincerely,

Rebecca Arceo