2009 – Water is the essence of life, and ensuring its cleanliness and accessibility is crucial for the well-being of our planet and all its inhabitants. In a remarkable effort to raise awareness and funds for water conservation, a group of passionate individuals recently embarked on an extraordinary journey: swimming the central Huallaga River. Organized as a fundraiser for the Central Huallaga RiverKeepers, this daring feat aimed to highlight the importance of protecting our local waterways and preserving the ecosystems they support.

The Journey:
The swimming expedition commenced in the picturesque town of Bellavista, located in the San Martin Region of Peru. The fearless swimmers, equipped with their determination and a deep sense of purpose, dove into the waters of the central Huallaga River. Their mission was to traverse a challenging distance, covering approximately 20 kilometers, until they reached the stunning destination of San Hilarion.
The primary objective of this daring endeavor was to raise funds and awareness for the WaterKeepers Alliance, a global movement dedicated to protecting and preserving clean water sources. By swimming the central Huallaga River, the participants aimed to draw attention to the urgent need for clean water initiatives, river conservation, and sustainable practices to safeguard our planet’s most vital resource.
The central Huallaga River, winding through the lush landscapes of Peru, serves as a lifeline for both nature and communities. By swimming this remarkable waterway, the team sought to emphasize the significance of safeguarding rivers from pollution, deforestation, and industrial activities that can harm the delicate balance of ecosystems. Their efforts aimed to inspire individuals, communities, and organizations to take action and make a positive impact on water conservation.
Fundraising and Community Support:
Throughout their swim, the courageous participants actively engaged with local communities, sharing their message of water conservation and encouraging support for the cause. They collaborated with the WaterKeepers Alliance to create an online fundraising campaign, inviting people from all walks of life to contribute towards the preservation of our planet’s water resources. Donations received during the fundraiser would be utilized to fund various initiatives, including river monitoring, educational programs, and advocacy efforts for water protection.
Marathon swimmer Rena Guenduez and steed “swimming the central Huallaga River is not just a physical challenge but a powerful statement about the importance of clean water conservation”. By braving the currents and immersing themselves in the very heart of this magnificent river, the participants highlighted the need for collective action to protect our waterways. Through their fundraising efforts, they aimed to support the WaterKeepers Alliance in their mission to safeguard clean water sources worldwide.
This remarkable fundraiser serves as an inspiration for us all to take an active role in preserving our environment and ensuring access to clean water for future generations. Let us join hands with organizations like the Riverkeepers and WaterKeepers Alliance and make a difference, one stroke at a time, in safeguarding our precious water resources.