Abraham J. Thomas, the oldest Manatee at 61, wears a back brace during practice. He says he’s reluctant to do deep knee bends, saying he might not get up again. (David Adame / For the Los Angeles Times)
The Manatees and choreographer Vanessa Martinez-Huff huddle up at the end of practice. The 16 members tip the scales at 225 to 435 pounds. (David Adame / For the Los Angeles Times)
Joseph Love, left, and Nelson Clark work with Martinez-Huff during practice. There are more people who look like them than have those perfect bodies, says a charter member of the Marlins Fan Club. (David Adame / For the Los Angeles Times)
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The Manatees will be dancing before an expected 45,000 fans at the Florida Marlins’ home opener Monday at Dolphin Stadium. During practice, Martinez-Huff admonishes the team: I see people leaving to get hot dogs! You want to keep them in the stands! Do you want to lose out to a hot dog? (David Adame / For the Los Angeles Times)
