China's Figure Skaters Face Investigation Following Holding Prop Weapon during Competition
ISU officials are conducting a formal inquiry after a pair of Chinese ice dancers appeared holding what looked like a replica weapon during a grand prix figure skating event.
Broadcast video showed the skaters sitting with a large toy in the form of a rocket labeled “DF-61” while waiting for the judges' results at the “kiss and cry” zone during the event.
The DF-61 is a recently introduced Chinese-made land-based intercontinental ballistic missile capable of carrying nuclear weapons, which was unveiled at a military parade last month.
Officials is aware of an unsuitable plush item seems to have been one of the objects thrown on to the rink by audience members following a performance at the ISU Figure Skating Grand Prix Cup of China event,” the ISU stated in an emailed statement.
The item was then handled by the athletes who had just performed. We apologizes for the incident and will investigate further.”
Ren and Xing finished eighth out of ten teams in the ice dance event, which was won by Madison Chock and Evan Bates of the United States.
