China's Figure Skaters Under Probe After Displaying Prop Weapon at Event
ISU officials have launched an investigation after two Chinese figure skaters appeared with an object resembling a toy ballistic missile during a grand prix figure skating event.
Broadcast video captured the skaters waiting alongside a large toy in the form of a rocket labeled “DF-61” as they awaited the judges' results at the “kiss and cry” area on Saturday.
The DF-61 is a new Chinese-made land-based long-range weapon designed for carrying nuclear weapons, that had been unveiled during a national ceremony recently.
Officials have acknowledged that an inappropriate soft toy seems to have been one of the objects tossed onto the rink by spectators after a routine at the ISU Figure Skating Grand Prix Cup of China event,” the organization commented via a release.
The item was then handled by the athletes after their performance. The ISU apologizes for this occurrence and will investigate further.”
The duo 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.
