China's Figure Skaters Under Probe Following Holding Prop Weapon at Event
The International Skating Union are conducting an investigation after a pair of Chinese figure skaters were seen with an object resembling a replica weapon at a grand prix figure skating event.
Television video showed the skaters sitting with a sizable prop in the form of a rocket marked “DF-61” while waiting for the judges' results in the “kiss and cry” area on Saturday.
The DF-61 is a recently introduced Chinese-made land-based long-range weapon designed for carrying nuclear weapons, that had been displayed at a military parade recently.
“The ISU is aware of an unsuitable plush item appears to have been among those thrown on to the rink by spectators after a routine at the ISU Figure Skating Grand Prix Cup of China event,” the organization commented in an emailed statement.
“The soft toy was subsequently handled by the athletes after their performance. The ISU apologizes for this occurrence and will investigate further.”
The duo finished in eighth place of 10 pairs in the ice dance event, with the victory going to the American pair from the US.
