Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle Stars Unite to End Cruel Turtle Races on World Turtle Day

On May 23, World Turtle Day, two stars from the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise and a former Baywatch actress have joined forces with In Defense of Animals to call for an end to the turtle races at Brennan’s, an Irish pub in Marina del Rey. Since 1975, Brennan’s has hosted these races, promoting them as “the world’s stupidest sport,” despite growing criticism for the inherent cruelty involved.

Brian Tochi, who voiced Leonardo in the original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles films, expressed his dismay: “As Leonardo, the Leader of the Turtles, I am saddened to learn that fellow turtles are being so heartlessly exploited by forcing them to ‘perform’ in a loud and crowded bar. There’s got to be a better way for Brennan’s to generate profits that doesn’t include abusing vulnerable animals.”

Greg Cipes, the voice of Michelangelo, also condemned the practice, stating, “Turtles are sensitive animals who shouldn’t be subjected to shouts and screams at a crowded bar for entertainment. I stand with In Defense of Animals and urge Brennan’s Bar to stop the inhumane turtle races.”

Former Baywatch actress Alexandra Paul joined the chorus of opposition, urging Brennan’s to end what experts have called an inhumane practice: “It is time for Brennan’s to get smart and stop this cruel practice, which turtle experts agree is inhumane. There are many other forms of entertainment to offer that don’t involve harming animals.”

In Defense of Animals has mobilized over 11,500 supporters to write to Brennan’s and its operating partner, Artisanal Brewers Collective, urging them to end the turtle races. Critics argue that the races subject turtles to extreme stress from the noisy, chaotic environment of the bar, which can have serious health consequences for these sensitive creatures.

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