A 19-year-old New Zealand man has tragically died following a severe head injury sustained during a game inspired by the controversial ‘Run It Straight’ trend. Ryan Satterthwaite, from Palmerston North, passed away on Monday night after participating in the full-contact collision game on Sunday afternoon.
Manawatū Police Inspector Ross Grantham confirmed that Satterthwaite was engaged in an impromptu tackle game with friends when the injury occurred. Despite being rushed to the hospital by his companions, he could not be saved. Grantham stated,
‘This was an impromptu game among friends, not a planned event. While this is not a criminal matter, police will continue to make inquiries on behalf of the Coroner.’
Controversial Sport Under Scrutiny
The incident has intensified scrutiny on ‘Run It Straight,’ a collision game that has gained popularity online despite criticism from health professionals and safety experts. The game involves two individuals charging at each other without protective gear, aiming to dominate the collision on a narrow 20-meter field.
Promoted as ‘the world’s fiercest new combat sport,’ the game has become a social media sensation. However, the death of Satterthwaite has renewed calls for the sport to be banned. Health experts argue that the activity ignores decades of research on head injury prevention.
Expert Opinions on Safety Risks
Neuroscientist Dr. Helen Murray labeled the sport an unacceptable risk, stating,
‘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.’
Professor Patria Hume, an expert in sports science and injury prevention, described the sport as ‘a step backwards,’ emphasizing that
‘The science is clear – repeated head impacts increase risk of long-term brain damage.’
Australian neurologist Dr. Alan Pearce echoed these concerns, criticizing the sport for replacing skill and strategy with blunt force.
‘It’s insanity. You’re removing the skill and strategy and replacing it with blunt force,’
he said.
Impact on Community and Events
In the wake of Satterthwaite’s death, tributes have poured in from friends and family. One tribute read,
‘Rest easy brother Ryan Satterthwaite.’
Another added,
‘So sorry to hear this, especially for the beautiful family I know going through this tragic event.’
Satterthwaite, who worked at Mainfreight Transport in Palmerston North, was described as kind and humble.
Meanwhile, a planned ‘Run It Straight’ event in Auckland was canceled after organizers failed to secure permits. Local board chair Tauanu’u Nick Bakulich cited safety concerns as a key factor in the decision, stating,
‘The local board opposes this event for reasons of safety.’
Auckland Council later confirmed that the event would likely not have been approved.
Debate Over the Sport’s Future
Despite the backlash, ‘Run It Straight’ 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 concerned about the risks. Dr. Pearce highlighted the long-term effects of brain trauma, noting that hundreds of retired footballers suffer from such conditions.
‘To take the most violent aspect of sport and glorify it – I was speechless,’
he remarked.
Some athletes and public figures have defended the event. Former NRL star George Burgess called it a safe simulation of past combat, while event spokesperson Billy Coffey claimed that organized competitions involve waivers, medical checks, and on-site ambulances. He argued that it provides former athletes a chance to reconnect with their competitive spirit.
Looking Ahead
The tragic death of Ryan Satterthwaite has cast a spotlight on the safety of ‘Run It Straight’ and similar collision sports. As debates continue, the future of such events remains uncertain. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with high-impact sports, prompting calls for stricter regulations and greater awareness of the risks involved.
