The incident underscores the dangers associated with viral games popularized on social media, urging players to prioritize safety.
Tragic Death of Kiwi Teen Highlights Risks of Viral Tackle Game
Tragic Death of Kiwi Teen Highlights Risks of Viral Tackle Game
A 19-year-old New Zealander dies after a game of "run it straight," igniting safety concerns.
In a tragic incident in Palmerston North, New Zealand, a 19-year-old named Ryan Satterthwaite died from a "serious head injury" sustained while playing a viral game known as "run it straight," which has gained popularity through social media. The young man succumbed to his injuries in hospital on Monday following the game, which involves two players racing towards each other to knock the other down without any protective gear.
Police spokesman Ross Grantham emphasized the critical safety risks associated with such impromptu games, urging others to reconsider participating in activities that pose significant injury risks. He clarified that while the tragic incident is not a police matter, authorities will continue investigations for the coroner's report.
"Run it straight" is a long-standing casual game in Australia and New Zealand but has recently surged in online popularity, with some professional rugby players endorsing it despite warnings of head trauma and potential brain injuries. Social media showcases challenges where young men charge at each other, leading to alarming incidents, including participants losing consciousness after a hit.
The rise in popularity has also given way to organized tournaments, though regulations remain ambiguous. The Runit Championship League, which began in Auckland this month after originating in Australia, attracted over 1,000 spectators, with competitors vying for a prize of approximately $13,000 (£9,500). Some matches resulted in injuries, with alarming footage showing participants collapsing post-collision.
In light of the recent tragedy, Kimami Ngaluafe, an organizer of another local "run it straight" event, noted the importance of ensuring safety through the use of protective headgear and the presence of spotters to prevent falls. With children and adults frequently participating in this widely embraced Kiwi backyard sport, he stressed the need for proper guidance and precautions to mitigate risks associated with the game.
Police spokesman Ross Grantham emphasized the critical safety risks associated with such impromptu games, urging others to reconsider participating in activities that pose significant injury risks. He clarified that while the tragic incident is not a police matter, authorities will continue investigations for the coroner's report.
"Run it straight" is a long-standing casual game in Australia and New Zealand but has recently surged in online popularity, with some professional rugby players endorsing it despite warnings of head trauma and potential brain injuries. Social media showcases challenges where young men charge at each other, leading to alarming incidents, including participants losing consciousness after a hit.
The rise in popularity has also given way to organized tournaments, though regulations remain ambiguous. The Runit Championship League, which began in Auckland this month after originating in Australia, attracted over 1,000 spectators, with competitors vying for a prize of approximately $13,000 (£9,500). Some matches resulted in injuries, with alarming footage showing participants collapsing post-collision.
In light of the recent tragedy, Kimami Ngaluafe, an organizer of another local "run it straight" event, noted the importance of ensuring safety through the use of protective headgear and the presence of spotters to prevent falls. With children and adults frequently participating in this widely embraced Kiwi backyard sport, he stressed the need for proper guidance and precautions to mitigate risks associated with the game.
