American triathlete Seth Rider is taking an unconventional approach to prepare for the E. coli levels in the Seine River ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics. While some may find his methods questionable, Rider believes in increasing his E. coli threshold by exposing himself to a bit of E. coli in his day-to-day life. He even goes as far as not washing his hands after using the bathroom, citing that it’s backed by science.
The Paris mayor’s office released bacteria results showing E. coli levels just below the safe limit set by the World Triathlon Federation. However, concerns arise over potential rainfall during the opening ceremony, which could lead to more contaminants entering the river. This could impact the swimming training session scheduled for Sunday, with organizers monitoring water quality levels closely.
Despite these challenges, Olympic officials remain confident in the success of the official races, starting with the men’s individual race on Tuesday. American triathlete Taylor Spivey, who will compete in the mixed-team relay, is focused on maintaining a strong gut by increasing her probiotic intake. She hopes for good weather and no unexpected obstacles during the competition, including sharks like those seen in a Netflix movie.
Paris officials have invested significantly in infrastructure to improve water quality in the Seine River, including building water tanks and treatment plants to catch sewage during rainstorms. The presence of E. coli and enterococci in the water poses health risks, such as diarrhea and urinary tract infections, highlighting the importance of ensuring safe conditions for athletes.
As athletes like Rider and Spivey prepare to take on the challenge of swimming in the Seine River, their unconventional methods and dedication to their sport shine through. Despite concerns and past experiences with questionable bodies of water, these triathletes remain focused on their training and performance in the upcoming Olympics. The city of Paris is also working diligently to address water quality issues and create a safe environment for competitors and spectators alike.