The Olympic triathlon mixed relay is set to proceed as scheduled on Monday, despite concerns over water quality and a Belgian triathlete’s illness. Organizers announced on Sunday that recent water quality tests indicate an improvement in the Seine River at the triathlon site, meeting the acceptable limits set by World Triathlon.
The decision to proceed was made after consultation with triathlon teams, who requested an earlier announcement to allow for adequate preparation time. The men’s triathlon was previously postponed from Tuesday to Wednesday due to pollution issues, with athletes notified only hours before the scheduled race.
Belgian triathlete Claire Michel became ill after competing in the women’s race on Wednesday. As a result, Belgium will not participate in the mixed relay. The Belgian National Olympic Committee (COIB) expressed hope that lessons would be learned for future Olympic triathlon competitions.
The mixed relay event will feature teams of two men and two women competing in a relay format. The race will cover a total distance of 1.5 kilometers of swimming, 40 kilometers of cycling, and 10 kilometers of running.
Organizers have implemented additional measures to ensure the safety of athletes, including increased water testing and the provision of bottled water for hydration. They have also emphasized the importance of athletes following hygiene protocols to minimize the risk of illness.
The Olympic triathlon mixed relay is a highly anticipated event, and organizers are confident that it will be a success despite the challenges faced. The race will showcase the athleticism and determination of the world’s top triathletes and provide a thrilling spectacle for fans around the globe.
