Olympic triathlons finally underway after delays due to Seine River E. coli levels [Video]

Paris — On a morning that started with rain, the Olympic triathlons got underway Wednesday as the women dove into the Seine River to start the swim after days of delays and uncertainty over water quality concerns.

The athletes began near the Pont Alexandre III, a bridge that spans the famed Paris waterway. The steady drizzle tapered off just as the athletes splashed into the water. Some of the triathletes dunked their swim goggles in the Seine before putting them on and heading into the river with the Eiffel Tower in the background.

The decision to go ahead with the swim for the triathlon competitions is a big win for the city, Olympics organizers and the athletes.

Officials undertook an ambitious plan, including 1.4 …