RunIt has taken social media by storm with tens of millions of views. Photo: Andrew Cornaga / Photosport
A pair of Pasifika icons say they understand why their people take part in the 'run it straight' collision craze, but are urging participants to keep themselves safe.
The viral trend has swept the nation in recent weeks, with sanctioned events for $20,000 prizes, copycat leagues forced to cancel events, and the tragic death of a teenager taking part in a similar game.
While many have condemned those people participating, former All Black captain and Moana Pasifika coach Tana Umaga empathises with them.
"I see they are predominantly our people, Māori or Pacific Islanders that are doing it, just trying to get ahead in life. I see, like we are here, trying to give opportunities for our people."
Umaga does not endorse the game, but is pleading with his people to stay safe should they play.
"My situation's different to theirs, so I don't judge in terms of why they do it. I can see why they're doing it, because it could give them a bit of a stepping stone into making a better life for them and their family, but it is just making sure that they keep themselves safe."
All Black flanker Ardie Savea expressed his deep sadness for the teen who lost his life.
Ryan Satterthwaite, 19, died after suffering a catastrophic head injury while playing a version of the game on Monday evening.
"First and foremost is condolences to the young brother that sadly passed away and his family."
Like Umaga, Savea said it was a complex situation.
"It's a tough one, you can see the other side and understand why they're doing it."
The Moana skipper said similar games were a big part of his childhood.
"It's hard, because it kind of made me the rugby player I am. I used to do 'run it straights' in the backyard with 'bus' (older brother Julian Savea), so you kind of see both sides."
However, he said people needed to be smart around precautions.
"Obviously we don't want anyone getting hurt and obviously losing life. So I just encourage everyone to be safe, and condolences to the brother and his family."
Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
