Olympic Swimmers Train in Polluted Seine

PARIS — Open water swimmers training for the upcoming Olympics took to the Seine River on Wednesday, following assurances from Paris organizers that the water quality was safe for practice. The two-hour session allowed athletes to acclimate to the scenic course that winds through the heart of the French capital. Despite the positive assessment, some swimmers expressed apprehension about potential health risks. Austrian swimmer Felix Auboeck acknowledged the underlying concerns, stating, “I think if anyone’s saying they’re not concerned at all, they’re probably lying.” Most open water athletes typically train in controlled pool environments, making the Seine's conditions a unique challenge. While some opted out of the training due to fears over bacteria levels, many seized the opportunity to experience the river's strong current, which has been a topic of discussion among competitors. Auboeck noted the current would add an extra layer of difficulty, emphasizing the need for more practice races under similar conditions. Triathlon events have already taken place in the Seine, although the schedule has been affected by daily water quality assessments. World Triathlon reported that recent tests showed fecal bacteria levels were within acceptable limits for the triathlon relay course. This progress has been celebrated by organizers, who have worked diligently to improve the river's water quality. Swimming in the Seine has been largely prohibited since 1923 due to pollution. Recent efforts, including infrastructure upgrades and a new rainwater management system, have aimed to restore the river's health, demonstrating that significant improvements are possible.