Taiwan Race Sparks Outrage with Rifle-Inspired Trophies

The organizers of the Fengshan Marathon in Taiwan found themselves in hot water after handing out trophies shaped like automatic rifles to top finishers.

The backlash came quick, as people pointed out that the trophy closely resembled the Type 95 rifle, a firearm used by China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA). Given the ongoing tensions between Taiwan and China, it didn’t take long for the controversy to erupt.

How it unfolded

The marathon took place in Kaohsiung’s Fongshan District, with a route passing through three military facilities tied to Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense.

Organizers said they wanted the trophies to reflect the military theme of the race. However, they overlooked the fact that the Type 95 is a Chinese-made weapon—one that has been the standard issue for the PLA since the 1990s.

For many in Taiwan, seeing a trophy modeled after a Chinese military rifle at a local sporting event was jarring, with many questioning why a government-backed event would use a design tied to China’s military.

Organizers respond with an apology

After the public outcry, the marathon organizers quickly issued an apology on social media on March 17, the day after the race.

They admitted the choice of trophy was an “oversight” and announced they would be recalling the trophies immediately. They also assured participants that future events would be handled with greater care.

The co-organizer, the Kaohsiung City Fongshan Jogging Association, defended the original decision, stating that the rifle design was chosen purely for its military theme and aesthetic appeal.

They dismissed any claims that the choice was politically motivated, urging the public to focus on the effort that went into organizing the event.

Taiwan’s military, which allowed the marathon to take place on its grounds, also responded to the controversy.

Officials said they would remind event organizers to be more mindful of potential political sensitivities in the future.

Meanwhile, the trophy manufacturer has been ordered to create new designs, and winners will be contacted when the replacement trophies are ready.