LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Kentucky Division of Water (DOW) and the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) issued a harmful algal bloom recreational public health advisory after it took samples from the Ohio River on August 1.
That sample indicated toxin-producing bloom in the area of Towhead Island and Beargrass Creek just days before the return of the Ironman Triathlon.
"An algal bloom is essentially a proliferation, a lot of growth, of algae that are naturally occurring in bodies of water," Dr. Josef Jareczek, an assistant professor of biology at Bellarmine University, said.
The algae looks like your normal algae that you come across in the ocean, lake, or river. The blooms can easily form in the summer months, thanks to Louisville's climate.
"In the summer months, particularly when it's very hot and humid, often times there is not as much flow in the river, and algae likes those conditions, so it starts to multiply until you see those big mats of pond scum," Jareczek said. He said algal blooms are common in many bodies of water across the country, but blooms like this one could have serious consequences.
"If you come into contact with it, you could experience skin irritation or rashes," he explained. "If you ingest the water, you could get an upset stomach or digestive issues."
This problem isn't new to Louisville. Back in 2019, the Ironman Triathlon had to cancel the swimming portion of the event.
President and CEO of Louisville Sports Commission, Greg Fante, is working closely with the World Triathlon Corporation by keeping a close eye on water conditions.
"They're testing the water today, and we will decide during race week if conditions are safe to swim in," he said.
Officials believe a different starting point could be an option, but one thing is for sure, the entire race will not be cancelled. If need be, the swimming portion itself will be cancelled with the other two races still happening.
Despite these challenges, the event is guaranteed to bring a positive economic impact to Louisville.
"We are very excited about having WTC back in our community, and 4th street live is recognized largely as one of the greatest finish lines in tri-sports," Fante said.
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