Why do the Chinese athletes hold their flag backwards, behind them upon winning a medal?

Question

Am I the only one but I've noticed when a Chinese athlete wins a medal (mostly in gymnastics) that they celebrate by holding their flag behind them but flipped horizontally. I've seen them do this numerous times and they even look at their flag first to make sure it's in the "correct" position??? i.e. http://pro.corbis.com/images/42-17923464.jpg?size=572&uid={11a88301-975a-4ebc-896c-7b1b7decc327}

Answer 1

It is facing the right way to the people behind them.  

Answer 2

I don't know why exactly, but I think Americans (i assume you are American, correct me if I am wrong) need to realize that they have a lot more rules for the treatment of the national flag than a lot of other countries do.  I'm an American living in China for the last 3 years, and I can tell you that reverence for the flag is not as big of a thing here as back home.  There isn't a special correct way to fold the Chinese flag and all that.  And the flag is not displayed as much as in the US, except for special occasions.  

I am not saying the Chinese don't love their flag, but there just aren't as many rules about handling it as Americans have.  

Answer 3

Because it shows they conqured in unity rather than just one person holding a flag....