Calls to ban viral game Run It Straight after death of teenager | 7.30

Key Concepts

• Run It Straight: A competition involving high-speed head-on collisions.
• Risk of serious injury or death.
• Prize money incentives.
• Community impact and responsibility.
• Safety protocols and regulations.

Run It Straight: The Phenomenon

• Definition: Run It Straight is described as a "human car crash" involving high-speed collisions between two individuals. It's likened to a "contact sport" and a fraction of rugby league.
• Origin and Popularity: Founded by Christian Lassar in Sydney, Australia, the competition has gained popularity in Australia and New Zealand. Another version, "Run It," exists in Melbourne, endorsed by AFL and former NRL players.
• Viral Challenge: The sport has fueled a viral "Run It Straight challenge" with people attempting it in uncontrolled environments like backyards and schools.

The Tragedy of Ryan Satithweight

• Incident: 19-year-old Ryan Satithweight died after attempting Run It Straight with friends in a park, inspired by social media and television coverage.
• Injury: He sustained a severe brain injury after multiple tackles.
• Family's Response: Ryan's family is calling for a ban on these competitions, deeming it a "stupid activity." His uncle, Pete Satithweight, recounted the traumatic experience of informing Ryan's father.
• Quote: Pete Satithweight: "I don't recommend anyone um doing it uh for themselves for the sake of fun so it's it's dangerous."

Professional Involvement and Prize Money

• Semi Usa's Participation: Semi Usa, a 29-year-old rugby league player for the Souths Logan Magpies, participated in the Melbourne "Run It" competition, attracted by the $20,000 prize money.
• Prize Money Incentive: Christian Lassar's events offer prize money ranging from $500 to $5,000.
• Concerns: There are concerns that the prize money incentivizes individuals to participate without considering the safety risks or proper preparation.

Safety Concerns and Medical Perspective

• Dr. Simon Handel's Warning: Dr. Simon Handel, Deputy Director of Trauma Services at the Alfred Hospital, highlights the risk of severe injuries, including broken necks, paralysis, or death, if the angle of impact is wrong, shock absorption is inadequate, or participants are not properly trained or matched.
• Quote: Dr. Simon Handel: "...the potential is that you're going to break your neck and and if that happens then you might get away with it or you might not get away with it and you could either die or be paralyzed."
• Lack of Preparation: Concerns are raised about participants lacking proper training and technique, increasing the risk of injury.

Event Protocols and Regulations

• Run It Straight's Stance: Run It Straight claims to follow established protocols, including screening participants, strict tackling guidelines (between shoulders and hips), qualified medical support on-site, and medical assessments.
• Christian Lassar's Response: Christian Lassar acknowledges the concerns in light of Ryan's death and is considering the possibility of death at his events.
• Quote: Christian Lassar: "That's something I'm taking into consideration actually... I started this with good intentions and I started this just to give back to the community."

Sponsorship and Community Impact

• Simmons Homes' Disassociation: Construction company Simmons Homes, whose branding was featured at Run It Straight events, has disassociated itself, stating that the competition is "at odds with the company's values" and poses a risk of "mental and physical harm." They have engaged lawyers to remove their branding.
• Community Benefits: Christian Lassar emphasizes the economic benefits for Polynesian businesses at his events, claiming they can earn significant revenue in a short period.

Future of Run It Straight

• Potential Changes: Christian Lassar is working on a safer version of Run It Straight.
• Contingency Plan: He states that if the new version is not safe enough, he will stop the events and explore other options.

Synthesis/Conclusion

Run It Straight is a controversial competition involving high-impact collisions that has gained popularity but also faced criticism due to safety concerns and the tragic death of a participant. While organizers claim to have safety protocols in place, medical professionals warn of the potential for severe injuries, including death. The involvement of prize money raises concerns about participants prioritizing financial gain over safety. The future of Run It Straight is uncertain, with the founder considering modifications or potential cessation of the events in light of the risks.