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 playing an impromptu tackle game with friends when the fatal injury occurred. Despite efforts to rush him to the hospital, his life 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 growing criticism from health professionals and safety experts. The game involves two individuals charging at each other with no protective gear, a concept that has been marketed as “the world’s fiercest new combat sport.”
Participants engage in high-speed collisions on a narrow 20-meter field, with victory claimed by the individual who dominates the collision. However, this high-risk activity has sparked renewed calls for its ban, especially in light of Satterthwaite’s death.
Expert Warnings and Health Risks
Health professionals have voiced strong opposition to the trend, citing decades of research on head injury prevention. Neuroscientist Dr. Helen Murray described the sport as 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, criticized the sport as “a step backwards,” emphasizing the clear scientific link between repeated head impacts and long-term brain damage. Similarly, Australian neurologist Dr. Alan Pearce condemned the sport, saying, “It’s insanity. You’re removing the skill and strategy and replacing it with blunt force.”
“The science is clear – repeated head impacts increase risk of long-term brain damage.” – Professor Patria Hume
Public Reaction and Event Cancellations
Despite the controversy, ‘Run It Straight’ events have been staged in Auckland and Melbourne, drawing significant crowds and online attention. However, the death of Ryan Satterthwaite has intensified scrutiny over the sport’s safety.
In Auckland, a planned event was cancelled after organizers failed to secure necessary permits. Local board chair Tauanu’u Nick Bakulich cited safety concerns as a key factor in the decision, noting that the Auckland Council would likely not have approved the event.
Meanwhile, tributes have been pouring in for Satterthwaite, who was described by friends and family as kind and humble. He worked at Mainfreight Transport in Palmerston North, and his untimely death has left a community in mourning.
Ongoing Debate and Future Implications
Despite the backlash, 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 claimed that organized competitions involve waivers, pre- and post-medicals, and on-site ambulances, providing former athletes a chance to reconnect with their competitive spirit.
However, many experts remain concerned about the risks. Dr. Pearce highlighted the plight of hundreds of retired footballers now suffering from brain trauma, questioning the glorification of violence in sports. “To take the most violent aspect of sport and glorify it – I was speechless,” he said.
“To take the most violent aspect of sport and glorify it – I was speechless.” – Dr. Alan Pearce
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’ trend. The incident has prompted calls for stricter regulations and a reevaluation of the sport’s place in society.
