A 19-year-old New Zealand man, Ryan Satterthwaite, has died following a severe head injury sustained during a game inspired by the controversial ‘Run It Straight’ trend. The incident occurred in Palmerston North, where Satterthwaite participated in the full-contact collision game on Sunday afternoon. He succumbed to his injuries on Monday night.
Manawatū Police Inspector Ross Grantham confirmed that Satterthwaite was engaged in an impromptu tackle game with friends when the injury happened. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he could not be saved. Grantham emphasized that the game was not a planned event, stating, “While this is not a criminal matter, police will continue to make inquiries on behalf of the Coroner.”
The Rise of ‘Run It Straight’
The ‘Run It Straight’ phenomenon has gained significant traction online, despite increasing criticism from health professionals and safety experts. The game involves two participants charging at each other without protective gear, aiming to dominate the collision on a narrow 20-meter field. Its website promotes it as “the world’s fiercest new combat sport.”
However, the tragic death of Satterthwaite has intensified calls for the sport to be banned. Health professionals argue that the sport disregards decades of research on head injury prevention. Neuroscientist Dr. Helen Murray described it as an “unacceptable risk,” noting, “There is clearly a high risk of head injury in this event. There’s no attempt to reduce head acceleration, so I do not support it.”
Expert Opinions and Safety Concerns
Professor Patria Hume, a sports science and injury prevention expert, criticized the sport as “a step backwards,” highlighting the clear scientific evidence that repeated head impacts increase the risk of long-term brain damage. Australian neurologist Dr. Alan Pearce echoed these concerns, labeling the sport as “insanity” for replacing skill and strategy with blunt force.
Despite these warnings, Run It Straight-style events have been staged in cities like Auckland and Melbourne, attracting significant crowds and online attention. At a recent Auckland event, three out of eight competitors sustained injuries, including two with concussion symptoms. Clips of these brutal hits have gone viral, further fueling the sport’s online popularity.
Health experts say the activity poses significant risk of traumatic brain injury and long-term neurological damage.
Community Response and Event Cancellations
The death of Ryan Satterthwaite has cast a harsh spotlight on the sport’s safety. Tributes have poured in from friends and family, describing him as kind and humble. Satterthwaite worked at Mainfreight Transport in Palmerston North, and his loss has deeply affected those who knew him.
Meanwhile, a planned Run It Straight event in Auckland was cancelled after organizers failed to secure necessary permits. Local board chair Tauanu’u Nick Bakulich cited safety concerns as a crucial factor in the decision, stating, “The local board opposes this event for reasons of safety.” Auckland Council confirmed that the event would likely not have been approved even if an application had been submitted.
Despite the backlash, Run It Straight’s founder, Christian Lesa, insists that community support remains strong. “When the community’s there, loving it like I do, it means a lot,” he said. However, many experts remain worried about the risks involved.
Looking Forward: The Future of ‘Run It Straight’
Dr. Pearce highlighted the long-term consequences of glorifying violent sports, noting that hundreds of retired footballers now suffer from brain trauma. “To take the most violent aspect of sport and glorify it – I was speechless,” he said.
Despite the criticism, some athletes and public figures have endorsed the event. Former NRL star George Burgess defended the concept, describing it as a safe simulation of past combat. Event spokesperson Billy Coffey mentioned that organized competitions include waivers, medical checks, and on-site ambulances, claiming it provides former athletes with an opportunity to reconnect with their competitive spirit.
As the debate continues, the tragic death of Ryan Satterthwaite serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with the ‘Run It Straight’ sport. The incident may prompt further scrutiny and regulatory action to ensure the safety of participants in such high-risk activities.
