Hola! Mi nombre es Samana! I’m checking in for the Tour de Turtles marathon from the Caribbean coast of Panama where I’ll be representing Team Atlantis in this year’s race. Atlantis has been supporting my other leatherback friends in the Tour de Turtles since 2010 and now it’s finally my turn! I am extra excited to swim for Atlantis in the race because they are making extra efforts to combat plastic debris by not providing single-use plastic water bottles or straws on their property. This cause is very close to my heart because plastic debris is extremely dangerous to leatherback turtles like me, and all marine-life. Plastic bags and plastic straws have become a real problem lately, but I’m glad I don’t have to worry about running into any of those near the waters around Atlantis… Instead of single-use plastics, they provide guests with reusable water bottles and paper straws on request, setting a great example for other resorts and hotel properties! Cheer for me and Team Atlantis this year and help us spread the word about the threat of plastic debris and the importance of keeping our beaches and waterways clean!

I was named by my Sponsor, Atlantis Paradise Island. Check out my marathon migration map, where you can follow along as I swim to raise awareness about the threat of Plastic Debris to sea turtles. Please help me raise awareness about my cause by supporting me!

Learn more about leatherback sea turtles.