Russian athletes kicked out of competition for alleged drunken behavior
The sixth Military World Games -- designed to let soldiers square off on the playing field instead of the battlefield -- are off to a rocky start.
Nine Russian athletes, trainers and journalists were sent home Friday for allegedly getting drunk and acting rowdy on their flight into South Korea.
The five men and four women could be charged with violating the country’s aviation security law, International Military Sports Council organizers told the Yonhap News Agency.
During the flight, the Russians -- whose contingent included active-duty soldiers -- reportedly grew loud and blocked an aisle after crew members refused to serve them more alcohol.
The upcoming competition in Mungyeong will include 7,000 athletes from 117 countries. It is scheduled to continue through Oct. 11.
Follow David Wharton on Twitter @LATimesWharton
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