Portuguese swimmers Miguel Arrobas and Nuno Vicente appointed as Ambassadors of the Year of the Dolphin
Turbulent sea conditions made the crossing much more difficult and challenging to the swimmers. Defying the waves, Nuno Vicente and Miguel Arrobas arrived after swimming for seven hours in Atlantic waters of only 13 C.
Enthusiastic supporters celebrated the swimmers upon their arrival in the port of Peniche. After having received silver trophies in recognition of their outstanding performance from the Mayor of the town of Peniche, the YoD coordinator presented the official YoD Ambassador certificates to the athletes. Miguel Arrobas said: “We want to spread the message that every one of us needs to make a contribution towards dolphin conservation.” Nuno Vicente added: “Dolphin populations are in decline on a global scale. Therefore we want to raise awareness about dolphins and the threats they face.”
Curious dolphins take a good look at the swimmers on their way to Peniche
Both swimmers were escorted by curious dolphins during the crossing. The event was supported by the Municipality of Peniche, which had organized the World Children’s Day and World Animal Day in 2007 drawing public attention to the Year of the Dolphin. In the run up to the swim, both participants together with the Peniche Municipality had called upon companies involved in the current 'Festival dos Sabores do Mar' to act as sponsors. Companies were asked to donate 1 € for every kilometre of the total crossing of 24 kilometres. Miguel Arrobas and Nuno Vicente also contacted schools encouraging them to present small projects such as drawings or short stories about the "Dolphins of Peniche".
The Portuguese version of the YoD Dolphin Manual was also launched at this event, and several hundred manuals were distributed to children. The Manual is available for download here.
Swimmers Miguel Arrobas (l.) and Nuno Vicente receive their nomination for YoD Special Ambassador from CMS's Veronika Lenarz
The YoD campaign does not only rely on the Parties to the Convention, but also on the personal commitment of outstanding individuals. During their crossing of the English Channel set for 9 August, Nuno Vicente and Miguel Arrobas want to renew their mission for dolphin conservation.
See some Portuguese TV footage of the event:
Report shown on the 20pm news on RTP 1
