Dirty water sickens rowers at pre-Olympic events in Brazil

The 2016 Olympic Games in Brazil are less than a year months away. But, Olympic hopefuls are already feeling the effects of the country’s water crisis.

Thirteen rowers on the U.S. team competing in the World Junior Rowing Championships are suffering from a stomach illness. Officials are not certain of the cause but linked the illness to the course, drinking water, bottled water and/or food contamination.

Last month, The Associated Press published the results of water quality analysis showing high levels of bacteria from human sewage at many of the water venues, including the rowing venue.

Read more of The Associated Press‘ story on NBC News here: Dirty Water Blamed for Sick Rowers at Brazil Olympic Trial