Fifty-five triathletes are set to plunge into the Seine on Tuesday, marking a historic moment for the Olympics. At 8 a.m. (0600 GMT), the athletes will dive into the river from a floating pontoon next to the Pont Alexandre III, eager to make a splash in more ways than one. This is the first time since 1900 that the Olympics has seen competitors racing in the river.
The women’s individual race is all set for Wednesday at the same early morning time of 8 a.m., with athletes raring to go.
Organizers have wisely kept Aug. 2 as a backup day for the individual races and Aug. 6 for the mixed relay, just in case the water quality doesn’t improve in time. It’s a sensible precaution to ensure the smooth running of the events.
“Team Bermuda coach Dan Hugo, husband of Tokyo gold medalist Flora Duffy, expressed confidence in the organizers’ plans, saying, “They still seem really hopeful for men tomorrow and women Wednesday. But if needed, one or both will get moved to Friday.”
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| The Alexander III Bridge stood quiet and empty as Triathlon training was cancelled due to water quality concerns. Paris 2024 Olympics – Triathlon – Alexander III Bridge, Paris, France – July 28, 2024. Photo: Reuters |
Paris 2024 has already shown its adaptability by rescheduling the men’s skateboarding event from Saturday to Monday due to rain. They are committed to ensuring the Games run smoothly, come rain or shine.
One of the key legacies the organizers aim to leave behind is a swimmable Seine for Paris residents to enjoy. This ambition has driven France to invest a substantial $1.4 billion in new wastewater infrastructure, reducing the amount of sewage entering the river. The city authorities have also announced plans to open three swimming sites to the public by June next year, a welcome development for locals.
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| A breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower and the River Seine from the Triathlon start, where training was cancelled due to water quality concerns. Paris 2024 Olympics – Triathlon – Alexander III Bridge, Paris, France – July 28, 2024. Photo: Reuters |
The triathlon training schedule hit a bump on Sunday when tests carried out the previous day revealed that the water quality did not meet the required standards. As a result, the training session had to be canceled, highlighting the importance of maintaining high water quality for the safety and well-being of the athletes.
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| An empty Alexander III Bridge, usually bustling with athletes, as Triathlon training was cancelled. Paris 2024 Olympics – Triathlon – Alexander III Bridge, Paris, France – July 28, 2024. Photo: Reuters |
Fortunately, the running and bike training sessions were unaffected by the water quality issues, allowing athletes to continue their preparations without disruption.
Organizers remain optimistic about the water quality improving in time for the triathlon competitions. In a statement released on Monday, they assured, “Given the weather forecast for the next 36 hours, Paris 2024 and World Triathlon are confident that water quality will return to below limits before the start of the triathlon competitions on July 30.”
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| The iconic Eiffel Tower and the River Seine, as seen from the Triathlon start, where training was cancelled. Paris 2024 Olympics – Triathlon – Alexander III Bridge, Paris, France – July 28, 2024. Photo: Reuters |
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