Amazon Swim (Martin Strel)
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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.
Sun, February 18 2007

The Man in the White Mask

Martin has developed 2nd degree burns on his face and forehead. If he doesn’t find ways to avoid the sun, they will progress into 3rd degree burns, the skin will fall off and the area will become infected.

The team has devised many ways to help Martin combat the sun.

Today, we strapped a white pillow case around his head with holes for eyes, nose, and mouth. He complements this scary looking mask with an oversized ladies floppy hat. This afternoon, a big group of people paddled by in a canoe loaded with bananas. When they saw the swimming phantom, a little girl onboard began to cry and they quickly paddled away.

Swimming with the mask is frustrating for Martin. It’s hard for him to breathe and very hot. By the end of the day, the area around his mouth is brown with dirt that accumulates from the waves breaking on his face. His lips are blistered and constantly bleeding, and scabs are forming on his nose and upper cheeks. In addition, his eyes are very sore and swollen, probably from suntan lotion getting inside his goggles. Martin pushed forward another 108 km to the town of Pevas.

Swiss photojournalist Corrado Filipponi joined the team today. We are looking forward to meeting up with the famous boat, The Cassiquiari, at the Brazilian border town of Tabatinga on Friday, February 23rd, at which time Live Video Streaming will launch.

>>Matthew Mohlke