# Death a ‘distinct possibility’ in collision running and face-slapping competitions, inquiry hears

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/death-a-distinct-possibility-in-collision-running-and-face-slapping-competitions-inquiry-hears/
- Published: 2026-11-06T08:23:10+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-06T09:07:34+00:00
- Original publisher: The Guardian (publisher lean: Left)
- Original article: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/nov/06/run-nation-power-slap-combat-sports-safety-inquiry-nsw
- Topics: Software, Technology, World

## Key points

- Neurologist says collision running and face-slapping could be fatal.
- NSW inquiry is considering combat sport regulation.
- Organisers cite the cost of required medical services.

## Summary

A neurologist told a New South Wales parliamentary inquiry that collision running and face-slapping competitions could cause fatal head injuries and cannot be made safer through regulation. The inquiry is considering whether emerging events such as Run Nation and Power Slap should be classified as combat sports and brought under safety rules.

Dr Rowena Mobbs compared the impacts to a coward punch and said fewer blows could still cause lasting brain disease. A 19-year-old died in New Zealand last year after a critical head injury in a tackling game believed to be inspired by a viral challenge. The state combat sports authority favours regulation with medical staff and ambulance cover, while grassroots fight organisers say compliance costs can be prohibitive; Run Nation’s next event is scheduled for 28 November.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.