Featured Image Credit: Instagram
Topics: Social Media, Viral, New Zealand, Health
Callum Jones
Here's what the 'run it straight' trend actually is after a teenage in New Zealand tragically lost his life taking part in the viral challenge.
Trends on the internet come and go, but not many are as dangerous as this, to the point where health experts are wanting it banned.
Police in New Zealand confirmed 19-year-old Ryan Satterthwaite passed away on May 26 after being involved in a game of the 'run it straight' challenge with his pals.
The teen, from Palmerston North, a city in New Zealand's North Island, suffered a serious head injury the day before.
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Police spokesperson Ross Grantham said in a statement, as per the BBC: "We would urge anyone thinking about taking part in a game or event like this to consider the significant safety and injury risk.
"While this was an impromptu game among friends, not a planned event, this tragic outcome does highlight the inherent safety concerns with such an activity."
The viral challenge sees two individuals sprint full pelt at one another, with one player sometimes carrying a rugby ball.
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This collision happens only over a narrow 20-metre field and neither individual wears any protective gear while taking part in the trend.
The person who ends up on the deck first is defeated in the challenge.
It isn't clear whether there are weight classes, as some videos have shown vast differences in weight between competitors.
Health experts are firmly against the challenge and have been voicing their concerns at the risk with this new trend.
On top of the obvious risk of serious injury taking part in the 'run it straight' challenge, neuroscientists and brain injury specialists have warned about an increased risk of serious brain trauma.
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Headway, a charity that sheds light on the effects of brain injuries, has issued a warning to those thinking of taking part.
Colin Morris, director of communications at the charity, told ITV News: "Trends like this are dangerous because they encourage copycat behaviour often among young people who may not fully understand the serious risks involved.
"Participants will often have no medical supervision or support on hand if something goes wrong. One blow to the head can result in death or lead to permanent damage, affecting memory, mood, mobility, and even personality.
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"It’s simply not worth the risk."
Those who partake in the challenge are at 'high-risk of potentially life-threatening injuries', according to Morris.