World Sailing said that the water quality at the Rio 2016 sailing venue "needs major improvement," as organizers prepare to open a new pipe belt to divert sewage, according to David McDaid of the BBC. Tests at Guanabara Bay have "revealed high levels of bacteria and viruses coming from human sewage." Two sailors "contracted infections at a test event in August, which they claim were caused by the waters." Rio Olympic organizers said earlier this month that the health and safety of athletes is "always a top priority." Seven of the 10 sailing events in the Brazilian city will launch into the Marina de Gloria, "where the new pipeline is due to open this month." World Sailing Head of Events Alastair Fox said, "The Marina area is our biggest challenge; it's critical it's completed and we start seeing a difference. It's essential that it improves radically -- from a health point of view and also for showcasing the sport." Nearly 70% of sewage in Rio "is spilled raw into its surrounding waters." Sailors have also reported seeing pollution, including furniture and floating animal carcasses, while drug-resistant "super-bacteria" were found in the area last December. A statement from the Rio 2016 organizing committee earlier this month said, "There is no doubt water within the field of play meets the relevant standards" (BBC, 12/16).
