A Team USA triathlete, Seth Rider, has raised eyebrows with his unconventional approach to preparing for the Olympics. Rider disclosed to reporters on July 27 that he intentionally avoided washing his hands after using the bathroom to increase his exposure to E. coli, in anticipation of swimming in the River Seine during the upcoming competition.
Rider justified his unorthodox method by stating that he aimed to raise his E. coli threshold, citing his previous experience of swimming in the Seine without falling ill during a triathlon trial last year. He claimed that such practices were supported by scientific evidence, suggesting that small exposures to E. coli in daily life could help condition his body for the challenges ahead.
However, Rider's strategy faced an unexpected setback when the men's triathlon event was postponed due to concerns over poor water quality in the River Seine. The decision to reschedule the race to Wednesday, following the women's event, was prompted by heightened E. coli levels exacerbated by heavy rainfall in Paris over the weekend.
The postponement serves as a reminder of the complexities and uncertainties that athletes may encounter in their pursuit of Olympic glory. While Rider's unhygienic approach may have been intended to toughen his resilience, the unforeseen circumstances surrounding the water quality issue have underscored the importance of adaptability and preparedness in elite sports.
