SYDNEY: A teenager has died in New Zealand after taking part in a rugby-inspired social media craze that sees participants sprint and crash into each other, police said Tuesday (May 27).
The “run-it-straight challenge” has gone viral on social media across New Zealand and Australia, attracting huge crowds to events where participants charge each other head-on with no protective gear.
According to the New Zealand Herald, the challenge involves a runner and a tackler running full speed at each other on a field measuring 20m by 4m.
A 19-year-old died from a “serious head injury” in New Zealand’s North Island after playing the game with friends over the weekend, New Zealand Police said in a statement.
“The man suffered a serious head injury when tackled and was taken to hospital by friends,” police inspector Ross Grantham said.
“Tragically, he passed away in hospital on Monday night.
“We would urge anyone thinking about taking part in a game or event like this to consider the significant safety and injury risks.”
Grantham said the incident was an impromptu game among friends, not a planned event.
However, the “tragic outcome does highlight the inherent safety concerns with such an activity”.
The incident is not considered a criminal matter, but the police will continue to undertake enquiries on behalf of the coroner, Grantham added.
Organised run-it-straight competitions offer thousands of dollars in prize money and have drawn interest from ex-professional rugby players.
Experts have likened the game to a combat sport, warning that participants face serious concussion risks.
