- Schulz and their associates need to exhibit forbearance
After the heavy downpour in Paris, the organizers of the Paralympics Triathlon decided to delay the event. The organizers concluded that the water in the Seine was too contaminated for swimming due to the poor water quality. The races have been pushed back a day, but could potentially take place on Tuesday if necessary. As an alternative, there's also a plan to only conduct a Duathlon, which includes cycling and running.
German flag-bearer and two-time Paralympics gold medalist Martin Schulz is not thrilled about this alternative. He stated, "I personally think we'd all rather swim in the Seine than have to participate in a Duathlon." Schulz found the last-minute rescheduling to be a bit unexpected as the water quality had been good lately.
Issues related to water quality also arose during the Olympics. Despite investing 1.4 billion euros in sewage treatment plants to ensure safe swimming in Paris, Triathlon races were postponed due to poor water quality during the Olympics. The heavy rain boosted the concentration of bacteria in the Seine.
The Triathlon competitions scheduled for Monday are still at risk as they continue to monitor the water quality. The initial plan was to conduct the competitions over two days, but it was moved to Sunday due to weather forecasts.
"We're prepared for it"
German coach Tom Kosmehl explained, "The parameters are almost within the safe range, but they are slightly above the limit." He discovered the postponement after a meeting with the World Triathlon, the organizing committee, and the relevant French authorities. "We're optimistic that everything will proceed as planned tomorrow. The weather is stable. We're preparing, but there's still a chance for Tuesday."
The latest tests revealed a degradation in water quality in the Seine, making it unfit for swimming at the Pont Alexandre III, where the triathletes were meant to compete. Training was also postponed the previous day as a precaution. However, Schulz stated, "It was more of a precautionary measure. They're just being very cautious, which is generally a good thing. We're accepting it now."
Despite the improved water quality lately, the heavy rain caused a surge in bacteria levels, leading to continued concerns about the safety of the Triathlon competitions on Monday. The presence of rainwater in the Seine has exacerbated the issue, making it essential to closely monitor the water quality.
German flag-bearer Martin Schulz, despite his preference for swimming in the Seine, has shown understanding towards the organizers' decisions, acknowledging that precautions are crucial for everyone's safety.
