Paris, July 31, 2024, The Europe Today: According to the NHC, Cassandre Beaugrand clinched victory in the Olympic women’s triathlon on Wednesday, bringing much-needed relief to organizers after a week of concerns over the River Seine’s water quality.
The run-up to the competition had been fraught with issues as rainstorms last week led to pollution concerns, rendering the Seine too dirty for athletes. Consequently, organizers canceled training sessions and postponed the men’s race scheduled for Tuesday.
Despite heavy overnight rain, which typically exacerbates pollution, organizers announced early Wednesday that the water levels were “assessed as compliant” for the women’s event and the men’s race to proceed.
The women’s triathlon began with the athletes diving into the Seine at the historic Alexandre III bridge in the heart of Paris. The event continued with a cycling stage and concluded with a running stage, drawing large crowds along the route.
Beaugrand, a 27-year-old from the Parisian suburbs, emerged from the leading pack during the thrilling final lap of the running stage. She crossed the finish line first, sinking to her knees in elation at her triumph.
The men’s race followed immediately after, also benefiting from the favorable water assessment earlier in the day.
