China's Ice Dancers Under Investigation Following Displaying Prop Weapon during Event
The International Skating Union have launched an investigation following two Chinese ice dancers appeared holding what looked like a replica weapon at a grand prix figure skating event.
Television video captured the skaters waiting with a sizable prop in the form of a rocket marked “DF-61” while waiting for their scores in the “kiss and cry” area on Saturday.
The DF-61 is a new China-produced ground-launched intercontinental ballistic missile designed for transporting atomic warheads, that had been displayed during a national ceremony last month.
“The ISU is aware of an unsuitable plush item appears to have been among those thrown on to the ice by spectators following a performance during the competition,” the ISU stated via a release.
“The soft toy was then handled by the skaters after their performance. We apologizes for the incident and will investigate further.”
Ren and Xing placed in eighth place of 10 pairs during the ice dancing competition, with the victory going to Madison Chock and Evan Bates from the US.
