It is undoubtedly not a problem that comes readily to mind for many people, yet freshwater gold clams are putting the swim of the Ironman 70.3 World Championships, which take place in less than two weeks in Taupo, New Zealand, in danger. The freshwater gold clam has been found in nearby waters and, according to local authorities, everything must be done to keep that bivalve mollusk from spreading.
Therefore, a special “emergency” has been declared in New Zealand’s central North Island. The clams have currently been found in the Waikato River and are also in danger of spreading to other freshwater waters, including Great Lake Taupo, where swimming will take place during the IM 70.3 World Championship. Spread must be prevented because freshwater gold clams can cause clogged underwater infrastructure, including that of power plants, irrigation systems and water treatment plants.
For participants in the Ironman 70.3 World Championship, this means several things. Ironman is asking them to check wetsuits extra carefully in the near future before traveling to Taupo. During the test swim as well as at the race check in, wetsuits will also be checked by a special team. If an athlete choses to not assist in this test, they will not be allowed to start the race.
