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, medical efforts to save him were unsuccessful. “This was an impromptu game among friends, not a planned event,” Grantham told the NZ Herald. “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 incident has cast a spotlight on ‘Run It Straight’, a collision game that has surged in popularity online, despite mounting criticism from health professionals and safety experts. The game, which involves two individuals charging at each other without protective gear, has been branded as “the world’s fiercest new combat sport” by its promoters.
Participants face off at high speed on a narrow 20-meter field, with “victory” awarded to those who dominate the collision. However, the recent death has intensified calls for the sport to be banned, as health professionals argue it disregards decades of research on head injury prevention.
Expert Warnings and Health Concerns
Neuroscientist Dr. Helen Murray has labeled the sport an “unacceptable risk,” emphasizing the high potential for head injuries. “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,” she stated to the NZ Herald.
Professor Patria Hume, an expert in sports science and injury prevention, described the sport as “a step backwards.” She noted, “This is a reckless and dangerous spectacle. The science is clear – repeated head impacts increase risk of long-term brain damage.”
“It’s insanity. You’re removing the skill and strategy and replacing it with blunt force,” said Australian neurologist Dr. Alan Pearce.
Events and Public Reaction
Despite the controversy, ‘Run It Straight’-style events have been held in cities such as Auckland and Melbourne, drawing significant crowds and online attention. At a recent Auckland event, three out of eight competitors were injured, with two exhibiting concussion symptoms. Clips of the brutal hits and knockouts have gone viral, further fueling the sport’s online popularity.
However, the death of Ryan Satterthwaite has brought safety concerns to the forefront. Tributes have poured in from friends and family, with one writing, “Rest easy brother Ryan Satterthwaite,” and another adding, “So sorry to hear this, especially for the beautiful family I know going through this tragic event.”
Official Responses and Event Cancellations
In response to safety concerns, a planned ‘Run It Straight’ event in Auckland was canceled after organizers failed to secure necessary permits. Local board chair Tauanu’u Nick Bakulich emphasized that safety fears were a key factor in the decision. “The local board opposes this event for reasons of safety,” he said. Auckland Council confirmed that the event would likely not have been approved.
Christian Lesa, the founder of ‘Run It Straight’, maintains that community support remains robust despite the backlash. “When the community’s there, loving it like I do, it means a lot,” he remarked. Yet, many experts continue to voice concerns about the risks involved.
Dr. Pearce highlighted that “hundreds of retired footballers now suffer the effects of brain trauma. To take the most violent aspect of sport and glorify it – I was speechless.”
Looking Forward
Despite the criticism, some athletes and public figures have endorsed the event. Former NRL star George Burgess defended the concept, calling it 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 “get off the couch” and reconnect with their competitive spirit.
The tragic death of Ryan Satterthwaite has undoubtedly intensified the debate over ‘Run It Straight’, with health experts calling for immediate action to prevent further injuries. As authorities and communities grapple with the implications, the future of this controversial sport remains uncertain.
