RICHLAND, Wash. – As the Tri-Cities prepare for the Ironman triathlon, concerns about toxic algae in the Columbia River are becoming more prominent.

The event, which consists of a 70.3-mile course including a 56-mile bike ride, a half-marathon run and a swim in the Columbia, has raised questions about athlete safety.

Julia Merrill, a competitive swim coach and participant in this year's Ironman, shared her insights into the situation.

"I have actually been running an open water swim clinic all summer. I'm with some triathletes and something I've been actually kind of making sure I have my finger in the pulse of checking it regularly, making sure everybody's safe. And it's been a concern, and making sure everybody's comfort levels are where they need to be," Merrill said.

The Ironman ev

See Full Page