Ryan Satterthwaite, a 19-year-old from New Zealand, tragically died after sustaining life-threatening head injuries. He was playing a social media-inspired tackling game known as “Run It.” The crash that shocked the world last week in Palmerston North, a city on New Zealand’s North Island. Friends whisked Satterthwaite to a hospital near the fairgrounds after he was knocked to the ground by his rattler while competing. Sadly, he passed away from his injuries on Monday evening.
This social media challenge has become infamous for its dangerous behavior, causing alarm among healthcare providers and law enforcement officials across the country. Unlike other international teams, this year’s competition limited the number of participants to eight, competing for a main prize of NZ$20,000 (around US$18,500). In the melee that ensued inside Auckland’s Trust Arena, two other men were sucker punched and knocked unconscious. One of them had an apparent seizure and needed emergency medical treatment just days into incarceration.
Safety Concerns Surrounding the Craze
The events leading up to the “Run It” contest have opened up valuable conversation about whether these contests are safe. Inspector Ross Grantham, to note the spontaneous nature of this event, understood that this was not a planned gathering.
“We would urge anyone thinking about taking part in a game or event like this to consider the significant safety and injury risks.” – Inspector Ross Grantham
For years now, neuroscientists have been ringing alarm bells over the long-term brain trauma associated with the sport. Headway charity’s chief executive Stacey Mowbray is very clear – the game is without a doubt doing damage.
Reactions from Authorities and Experts
Following these tragedies, New Zealand Rugby has called for a ban, citing the harmful risks associated with these competitions. Answering the announcement, they have redefined the skill game of tackling as one that carries “high risk of injury.” This feeling is echoed by doctors who warn against taking part in activities like this that glamorize violent themes and dangerous behavior.
Satterthwaite’s death reverberates well beyond his own community. It sparked widespread outrage throughout New Zealand, culture of dangerous sports and social media challenges. Opponents caution that desensitizing children to violent video games leads to dangerous outcomes. This concern is particularly alarming in regard to young people, who seek notoriety or monetary reward by engaging in these challenges.
The Broader Implications
Debates over the fate of the “Run It” trend are starting to catch fire. People are calling for tougher regulations and creation of safety culture within informal sporting events. Ryan Satterthwaite’s tragic death is a cautionary tale about the hidden peril in pursuit of adrenaline. We cannot always put thrilling new technology ahead of safety.
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