Summarised by Centrist
A new combat sport called Run It Straight is debuting in Auckland this week, drawing criticism from brain injury experts, rugby officials, and health advocates over its format and safety.
Known formally as the RUNIT Championship League, the sport involves two competitors running full-speed at each other in a 20m-long corridor in one-on-one tackling clashes.
Sixteen athletes will compete in trials at Trusts Arena in West Auckland, with $20,000 in prizes and a $200,000 final in June.
The sport draws on elements of rugby, AFL, and NFL. Organisers describe it as “the fiercest new collision sport,” designed for live crowds and viral online content. Former NRL player George Burgess is helping oversee the competition, saying athletes are vetted and trained, and that safety measures include briefings on target zones and self-protection techniques.
Critics say the event poses unacceptable risks. New Zealand neuroscientist Dr Helen Murray said the format lacks safeguards against traumatic brain injury, and Headway, a brain injury charity, has called the events “dangerous spectacles.”
The charity raised concerns with Auckland Council and WorkSafe NZ, and is seeking information on how the events were permitted under the Health and Safety at Work Act.
New Zealand Rugby has distanced itself from the event, citing the risk of serious injury. Headway also expressed concern about the involvement of Warriors player Chanel Harris-Tavita, who is scheduled to appear at the Auckland trials.
The Ministry of Health has not made public comment. Organisers say the event is no more dangerous than other contact sports and is being managed with care. Auckland trials are set for 19 and 21 May, with the final taking place in June.
Read more over at Stuff and Scoop
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