DURING FEB 1 - APR 08, 2007 MARTIN STREL SWAM 5,268 KMS (3274 MILES) OF THE AMAZON RIVER! HE DEDICATED THE SWIM TO THE PROTECTION OF THE RAINFOREST. |
Thu, February 8 2007
Soldiers on the Boat
Martin is swimming through an area with a recent history of pirate activity and a reputation as a narco-trafficking hub
Peruvian president Garcia has ordered a military boat to escort the swimmer through this danger zone. The arrangement was a coordinated diplomatic effort on behalf of the countries of Peru and Slovenia.
Martin cranked out another tiresome 117 km as higher than anticipated water levels have helped him stay ahead of schedule. He stopped long enough at Contamena to wolf down a huge lunch while the crew loaded the boat with crate after crate of beer, wine, and food. Tonight, hundreds of curious children waited patiently outside our docked boat, hoping to catch a glimpse of the swimmer at the charming little village of Inahuaya.
>>Matthew Mohlke