The swimming portion of the triathlon event at the 2024 Paris Olympics may be impacted by poor water quality in the Seine River, according to Tony Estanguet, president of the Paris 2024 Organizing Committee. A recent report by a water charity found alarming levels of bacteria like E.coli in the Seine, raising concerns about the safety of the athletes participating in the event. Surfrider Foundation Europe conducted tests on water samples taken from the river, showing poor water quality in most of the samples.
The Olympic triathlons in Paris consist of a .93-mile swim, a 24.8-mile bike ride, and a 6.2-mile run. The swimming event is scheduled to take place on July 30 and 31, with athletes beginning their swim at the Pont Alexandre III bridge. After swimming two laps, they will embark on a bike ride and finish with a run. Surfrider Foundation expressed concerns about pollution levels at the Alexandre III Bridge, citing the risk of infections like staphylococcus due to the high levels of bacteria in the water.
Estanguet acknowledged the challenges posed by the water pollution in the Seine River and assured that they are working on addressing the issue. He mentioned that there are contingency plans in place, allowing for possible postponement of the race in case of rain. Despite the risks associated with natural conditions, Estanguet expressed confidence in holding the event in the Seine, emphasizing the extensive investment and preparations made by the authorities to ensure the success of the competition.
Efforts to clean up the Seine River have been ongoing in Paris, with the goal of making it safe for swimming activities. However, a sewage problem led to the cancellation of a swimming event ahead of the Olympics. French President Emmanuel Macron has pledged to swim in the river once it is deemed safe, a goal that the city aims to achieve by 2025. The recent challenges with water pollution in European rivers, such as the River Thames in London, have raised concerns about the potential impact on athletic events and the safety of participants.
Despite the threats posed by poor water quality, the Paris 2024 Organizing Committee and the International Olympic Committee have not yet provided further comments on the situation. The potential risks associated with the swimming portion of the triathlon event remain a significant concern, requiring close monitoring and decisive actions to ensure the safety and well-being of the athletes. The efforts to address the water pollution issues in the Seine River highlight the complexities and challenges faced in hosting major sporting events in urban environments with environmental concerns.
