Death a ‘distinct possibility’ in collision running and face-slapping competitions, inquiry hears
Summary
A New South Wales parliamentary inquiry is examining whether collision-running and face-slapping competitions should be regulated as combat sports. Neurologist Rowena Mobbs warned that the impacts could cause fatal injuries and said she knew of no modification that would make the competitions safer.Key Facts
- Mobbs told the inquiry that collision running and Power Slap can involve impacts similar to a “king-hit,” and that death is a distinct possibility.
- Run Nation involves two players running toward each other and colliding; Power Slap has players take turns slapping one another across the face.
- A 19-year-old died in New Zealand last year after a critical head injury in a tackling game believed to be inspired by the “run it straight” challenge.
- A New South Wales Supreme Court judge ruled in September that Run Nation was a combat sport, upholding cancellation of a Sydney event that month.
- Run Nation’s event was rescheduled for 28 November after the state Combat Sports Authority’s medical advisory board approved its permit.
- Combat Sports Authority chair Darren Kane said regulation would require systems such as accredited staff, concussion training, doctors, and medical support.
- Run Nation’s organisers say their events have on-field doctors and paramedics; Power Slap has not held an official event in Australia.
- Mobbs said repeated impacts can contribute to brain disease and that stronger impacts may mean fewer hits are needed to trigger neurodegenerative disease later in life.
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