Paralympic triathlon competitions in Paris were postponed for a day due to concerns about water quality in the Seine River following heavy rainfall. The heavy rains led to an increase in bacteria levels including E. Coli. The 11 para triathlon events were rescheduled for Monday after rainstorms hit the French capital on Friday and Saturday, causing wastewater and runoff to flow into the river.
Organizers decided to delay the events out of precaution until new test results showed improvement in water quality. The races were confirmed to go ahead on Monday after monitoring indicated that water quality had improved and met World Triathlon thresholds. This was the second rescheduling for the para triathlon events, which were originally planned over two days but moved to Sunday due to rain forecasts.
The disruption poses a challenge for Paris’ efforts to clean up the river for future public swimming, an ambitious promise ahead of hosting the Olympics and Paralympics this summer. Despite challenges with water quality, organizers are committed to continuing athletic events in the river beyond the Paralympics. While some athletes fell ill after participating in Olympic swimming competitions in the Seine, it was confirmed that their illnesses were not linked to the water in the river.
Paris Deputy Mayor Pierre Rabadan affirmed that athletic events in the river would continue in the future due to athlete satisfaction and anticipated improvements in water quality. The decision to reschedule the events reflects a commitment to ensuring safe and fair competitions for athletes.
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