One scuba divers idea has inspired a worldwide movement to get swimming to end shark finning with dive centres across the globe hosting Finathons to raise much needed funds for shark conservation.

Dive DownBelow, Sabah, Malaysia is FINatical about sharks and swimming to end finning this November.

“We think it’s a great fundraising and awareness campaign and are very excited about it.  This is a perfect way for local schools to become involved and we’re excited to have both the Shangri La Hotels, the Rasa Ria and Tanjung Aru on board,” said Joanne Swann, Dive Downbelow.

“We’re encouraging all participants to raise AUD 100.00 equivalent to the cost of a bowl of shark fin soup,” added Joanne.

The challenge at Gaya Island is a 1km swim but swimmers can choose a shorter distance. The 500m return route starts in the Bay and follows the reef along to Turtle House site. The top fundraisers for this event have a chance to win BARE Chillguards & Vaude Speedy Drink belts donated by A & L, Adventure & Leisure Kuala Lumpur.

All funds raised will help Project AWARE:

• Fight to stop shark finning
• Insist on full protections for critically endangered sharks
• Negotiate stronger policies to ensure a brighter future for all sharks

“Finning kills thousands of sharks every day. This cruel and wasteful practice involves slicing off the sharks’ fins and throwing the body overboard. Unable to swim, the shark bleeds to death or drowns. Shark fishing is largely unregulated in most of the world’s oceans,” said Alex Earl, Executive Director Project AWARE Foundation. 

With the clock ticking for vanishing shark species the time to act is now. Together divers have a powerful, collective voice to secure protection for endangered shark species worldwide.

If you’re Finatical about sharks host a Finathon in 2013. To get involved contact [email protected]