PARIS (AP) - The swimming segment of the Olympic triathlon practice run was called off on Sunday due to worries about water quality in the Seine River. However, Paris officials remain optimistic that the triathletes will be able to swim in the renowned waterway during the upcoming events this week.

The men's triathlon is scheduled for Tuesday, with the women set to compete on Wednesday. Despite triathletes being scheduled to familiarize themselves with the route on Sunday, the swimming leg was canceled following discussions among representatives of World Triathlon, city and regional authorities, and other decision-makers regarding water quality tests.

With the Seine's water quality dependent on weather conditions, heavy rain during the Olympic opening ceremony and continued showers prompted the cancellation. Nevertheless, officials anticipate that with no further rain forecasted, athletes will be able to swim in the Seine come race day.

Paris Deputy Mayor Antoine Guillou expressed confidence at a news conference on Sunday, citing past instances where water quality returned to safe levels within 24 to 48 hours after heavy rain. Olympic organizers and Paris officials shared this confidence, emphasizing improvements in the river's water quality thanks to the extensive work undertaken.

Should water quality concerns persist, contingency plans include postponing the triathlon events by a few days. In the event the quality remains inadequate, the swimming portion will be scrapped, and athletes will solely compete in running and biking.

Triathletes have conveyed hope that the water will be clean enough for swimming. Paris invested 1.4 billion euros to enhance the river ahead of the Olympics, including measures such as constructing a basin to capture rainwater excess and prevent wastewater flow into the Seine.

Daily tests initially revealed elevated levels of E. coli in early June, prompting subsequent enhancements that showed acceptable levels by Tuesday. Reports indicated no current data available, with governing bodies of sports using the measurements to make decisions on event viability.

While World Triathlon officials support the belief that the river will be suitable for swimming during the events, further inspections will be conducted closer to the marathon swimming events. Paris and Olympic officials maintain their assurance that the Seine will be fit for competition.

AP Sports Writers Jerome Pugmire, Pat Graham, and Paul Newberry contributed to this report.

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