Today six NFL football players traveled to Xcaret to participate in the park’s annual Sea Turtle Release Program together with fans. For over a decade Xcaret has monitored, investigated and preserved sea turtle populations on the nesting beaches of the central coast of Quintana Roo. However, this is the first time celebrated athletes have visited the park to release turtles.
The players were brought to Xcaret by Ultimate Fan Vacations, a travel agency that connects fans with their favorite athletes, to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The first group of football players releasing sea turtles includes:
● CALEB HANIE: Chicago Bears (2008-2011), Denver Broncos (2012), Cleveland Browns (2013)
● NICK ROACH: Chicago Bears (2007-2012)
● MILES BURRIS: Oakland Raiders (2012-Present)
● JOEL DREESSEN: New York Jets (2005), Houston Texans (2007-2011), Denver Broncos (2012-2014)
● VANCE MCDONALD: 49ers (2013-2014)
● JOEY LAROCQUE: Chicago Bears (2008)
Six of the seven existing species of sea turtles nest on the coast of Mexico, and four of those species nest in Quintana Roo, making Xcaret’s sea turtle hospital the most vital rescue and rehabilitation center in Mexico. Since 2004, we’ve estimated that 22,750 hatchlings were born from the 91 female sea turtles we’ve released, confirming the success of the Sea Turtle Initiation Program.
The Sea Turtle Initiation Program in Riviera Maya was born in response to high predation mortality rates experienced by newborn sea turtles during the first months of their lives, until they reach a size where they are less vulnerable in the wild.
During the turtles’ stay at Xcaret, they are cared for daily, while visitors at the park have the opportunity to learn about them, their characteristics and behaviors. Throughout March, Ultimate Fan Vacations will bring additional NFL athletes to the park to release turtles into the wild. For more information, visit ultimatefanvacations.com.
Experiencias Xcaret is a natural park located outside of Cancún, México, with more than 40 attractions available for visitors of all ages. Tourists can explore the natural landscape, enjoy Mexican culture and discover the diversity of animal species inhabiting the area.
