Paralympic triathlon competitions in Paris were postponed by a day due to concerns about water quality in the Seine River following heavy rainfall. The events were rescheduled for Monday after rainstorms caused a rise in bacteria levels, including E. coli. Organizers delayed the events as a precaution while awaiting new test results, which ultimately showed improving water quality. This change was the second for the para triathlon events, initially planned for two days but moved to Sunday due to rain forecasts.
The decision highlights ongoing efforts to clean up the river for future public swimming, a key promise ahead of the upcoming Olympics and Paralympics in Paris. Despite setbacks, officials remain committed to hosting athletic events in the river after the Paralympics, citing athlete satisfaction and improving water quality as reasons to continue. Notably, during the Paris Olympics, the men’s individual triathlon event was delayed, and test swims were canceled due to high E. coli levels after rainstorms. Although some Olympic swimmers fell ill afterward, no illnesses were directly linked to the Seine River water.
Overall, the Paris 2024 organizing committee and World Triathlon made the decision to postpone the para triathlon events in the interest of athlete safety and water quality. The rescheduled competitions on Monday aim to ensure a positive and safe experience for the participating athletes, setting the stage for future events in the river.
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