The organizers of the Fengshan Marathon in Kaohsiung have issued a public apology after presenting trophies shaped like a Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) rifle at the event on Sunday. The controversy erupted when a participant posted a photo of the trophy online, highlighting its resemblance to the PLA’s Type 95 automatic rifle, which has been in service since 1995.
How the Controversy Unfolded
The Fengshan Road Running Association, which organized the marathon, explained that the trophy design was chosen to reflect the race route passing through three major Taiwanese military academies. These include:
- R.O.C. Military Academy
- Army Infantry Training Command
- Chung Cheng Armed Forces Preparatory School
However, after public backlash, the association acknowledged that the design was inappropriate and pledged to replace the trophies with more suitable alternatives.
Public Reaction and Criticism
The controversy gained traction when a participant posted an image of the trophy, sarcastically questioning why a PLA rifle-shaped award was given at a race that passed through Taiwanese military institutions. Many on social media criticized the lack of awareness, pointing out that it was highly insensitive given Taiwan’s tense relations with China.
Military experts and netizens quickly identified the weapon depicted on the trophy as the PLA’s Type 95 (QBZ-95) rifle, which is used by China’s armed forces. This led to further criticism, with some suggesting that it symbolized Taiwan’s enemies rather than its own military heritage.
Organizers Respond and Offer to Replace Trophies
Following the backlash, the Fengshan Road Running Association issued an official apology, stating:
“We deeply regret the oversight and understand that the choice of a PLA rifle-shaped trophy was inappropriate. We sincerely apologize to all participants and will contact winners to provide alternative trophies.”
The organizers emphasized that the intention was never to cause controversy but to reflect the military theme of the marathon route. They admitted that better judgment should have been exercised when selecting the trophy design.
Taiwanese Military Distances Itself from the Event
In response to the controversy, Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense clarified that it had no involvement in the planning or execution of the marathon. Military officials stated they would remind event organizers to be more cautious when selecting designs or themes that involve symbols of military significance.
Lessons from the Incident
This incident highlights the importance of cultural and political sensitivity in public events, especially in Taiwan, where cross-strait tensions with China remain a sensitive issue. The organizers’ decision to replace the trophies is a step toward addressing public concerns, but the incident underscores the need for thorough review processes in event planning.
FAQs
Why were PLA rifle-shaped trophies given at the Kaohsiung marathon?
The organizers originally chose the design to reflect the race route passing through three military academies, but they later admitted it was an inconsiderate choice.
What is the PLA Type 95 rifle, and why is it controversial?
The Type 95 (QBZ-95) is an automatic rifle used by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) since 1995. Given Taiwan’s political tensions with China, using a symbol of the PLA in a Taiwanese event was seen as highly inappropriate.
How did the public react to the trophy design?
A participant posted a photo of the trophy online, questioning why a marathon near Taiwanese military schools featured a PLA weapon. The image quickly went viral, drawing widespread criticism.
Was Taiwan’s military involved in the event?
No, Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense clarified that it had no involvement in organizing the race. Officials urged event planners to be more cautious in the future.
Will participants receive new trophies?
Yes, the organizers will contact winners and provide alternative trophies to replace the original PLA rifle-shaped awards.
