The new highly controversial sport “Run It” made its New Zealand debut yesterday in West Auckland, however, many remain sceptical and have voiced concerns over brain injury.
The Run It Championship League has taken inspiration from collisions seen during rugby games and the iconic backyard run-it-straight challenge.
Two participants stand at each end of a 20m by 4m field and run toward each other at full speed.
Event organiser Billy Coffey said the goal is simple: take out the ball runner or run over the defender.
“There’s nowhere to hide, it’s you one-on-one. And usually as a player, you have 13 or 15 other people on the field, not anymore,” he said.
It has held several events in Australia, offering thousands of dollars in prize money to the winners, and has gained social media attention from league and union former players.
However, Auckland University neuroscientist Helen Murray has voiced her concerns about the increased likelihood of brain injury.
“When you have these sorts of collisions, even if your head isn’t directly involved, we have what you call a head acceleration event.
“So the brain is bouncing around in your skull and the risk of that causing damage, concussion or worse is even higher,” she said.
Although Coffey said there are strict measures in place to keep participants safe.
“Everyone signs a waiver, everyone gets a medical check, there are doctors on site, and you know that risk. But it’s also the daring nature of it.”
“It’s brought the community together everywhere we go, and that’s why we do it,” he added.
Photo Credit: ODT
