The Sarstoon Eco Challenge is a paddling event with an overtly nationalistic message: participants go down the Sarstoon and - of the Guatemalan military doesn't stop them - around the Sarstoon island. It's a harmless, recreational sporting event - but it's ripe with opportunities for confrontation because the Guatemalans military behaves as if it controls the river.
Well, this year event is planned for September 14th, and, in a surprising move - the Ministry of National Security has committed to organizer Will Maheia that the Coast Guard will be out there to protect the paddlers.
A letter from CEO Felix Enriquez to Maheia says, quote, "the Coast Guard will be present as a means of safety for the participants and supporters of the race," end quote.
It is a marked and welcome shift for the security ministry which has previously taken a hands off approach to the event - which, though harmless, may be seen by the Guatemalans as a provocation.
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