Chinese Figure Skaters Under Probe Following Holding Toy Missile at Event
The International Skating Union have launched an investigation following two Chinese ice dancers were seen holding an object resembling a toy ballistic missile during a grand prix figure skating event.
Television video captured Ren Junfei and Xing Jianing sitting alongside a large toy in the form of a rocket marked “DF-61” while waiting for the judges' results at the “kiss and cry” zone on Saturday.
This model is a new China-produced ground-launched long-range weapon capable of transporting atomic warheads, which was displayed at a military parade recently.
“The ISU is aware that an inappropriate plush item appears to have been one of the objects thrown on to the ice 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 soft toy was then held by the skaters after their performance. The ISU apologizes for this occurrence and will investigate further.”
Ren and Xing finished eighth out of ten teams during the ice dancing competition, with the victory going to the American pair of the United States.
