Heavy rainfall in Paris led to concerns about water quality in the Seine River, causing the postponement of Paralympic triathlon competitions from Sunday to Monday. The rain caused an increase in bacteria levels, including E. Coli, prompting organizers to delay the events as a precautionary measure. New test results indicated that water quality was improving, allowing the races to go ahead on Monday.
This change was the second adjustment made to the para triathlon events, which were initially scheduled over two days but were moved to Sunday due to rain forecasts. The postponement highlights the challenges faced by Paris in cleaning up the river for future public swimming, a key promise ahead of hosting the Olympics and Paralympics this summer.
Despite setbacks, organizers expressed their commitment to continue holding athletic events in the river beyond the Paralympics, citing positive feedback from athletes and improving water quality. While some athletes fell ill after swimming in the Seine during the Olympics, officials clarified that the illnesses were not linked to the river’s water quality.
Paris Deputy Mayor Pierre Rabadan emphasized the importance of maintaining competitions in the river, noting it as a significant legacy of the games. The delay of the Paralympic triathlon events underscored the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and quality of water sports in Paris.
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