All language subtitles for Australian.Ninja.Warrior.S06E01.WEBRip.9Now.en

(MYSTICAL MUSIC)

(MEN CHANTING IN RHYTHM)

LEILA McKINNON: Over five seasons...

BEN FORDHAM: On the top of
Mount Midoriyama, Ben Polson!

..the Ninja phenomenon
created legends.

REBECCA MADDERN: Olivia Vivian!

But, in 2022, the world's toughest
obstacle course is reborn.

(DYNAMIC MUSIC)

Hoo!
(CHANTS)

A new generation of ninjas...

I'm 16.

I'm a year 12 student.

..will take on their heroes.

These are kids which
grew up watching me

and now they're competing
alongside me.

To be honest,
I'm absolutely terrified.

The older guys, it's just time
for them to leave.

Like, see ya.

The fastest obstacles...

JIM COURIER: The Anaconda
is ready to put the squeeze.

..crank up the speed.

It's a long way down.
Grab on, hold on!

That is unbelievable!

A new commentary team.

I'm journalist and presenter
Leila McKinnon

together with former world
tennis number one Jim Courier...

That's some Ninja magic
on display right there!

Make some noise, kids!

..and KIIS FM's national drive hosts
Will and Woody...

(BOTH EXCLAIM)

..will lead the evolution.

Oh, my goodness. Oh, my goodness!

Oh!
Oh, my god!

The intensity doubles...

..when ninjas race head to head
in sudden-death showdowns.

(KLAXON RINGS)

Going head to head on a course
is absolutely insane.

This has never been done
anywhere in the world.

It's gonna be really cutthroat.

New endgames...

If you don't respect the course,
you're finished.

This is high.

I don't really want to be
falling down from that.

(GROANS)

..and a new era of ninjas...

This course has never
seen a ninja like me.

..take the beast to
uncharted territory.

Hey!

And celebrities
compete for charity...

Remember, these are
the Sprinting Steps.

..in a half-time special event.

Oh, no!
What a start!

Look at him twerking!

Not often seen on Ninja
but we welcome it.

I like his style.

But the ultimate quest
still remains.

This is my year.

Win back to back,
that is my ultimate goal.

Reach the summit of Mount Midoriyama
to win $200,000...

I'm the youngest ninja
on this course

and I'm gonna come for you,
Mount Midoriyama.

..and be crowned the next
Australian Ninja Warrior.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Hello and welcome to
a brand-new blockbuster season

of Australian Ninja Warrior.

I'm Jim Courier.

And I'm Leila McKinnon.

We are here at Sydney Olympic Park

primed for what promises
to be the fastest,

the most spectacular and the most
thrilling season of Ninja ever.

And it's also going to be
the most unpredictable, Leila,

because this year
we're doing something

that's absolutely incredible,
something we've never done before.

We're introducing a whole new breed
of ninjas to the competition.

They're the young guns of the sport,

just 16 and 17 years old.

They're the next generation
of Ninja.

They've grown up watching
Australian Ninja Warrior.

Now these fresh-faced rookies

are ready to beat the stars
at their own game,

and I'm talking names like
Ashlin Herbert and Ben Polson

who are both running tonight.

They'll need to watch their backs.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Now, also new to this season, you
may have noticed some new hosts.

Very happy new hosts.

We're thrilled to be here.

Big fans of the show.

And some other big fans
are on the sidelines.

For the first time on
Australian Ninja Warrior,

it's a massive welcome
to Will and Woody.

Thanks, Jim and Leila.

Honestly, guys, we're just
thrilled to be down here.

We have watched so much
Ninja Warrior before tonight

and just to be on the course,
having a look at the size of it,

the scope of it, the height, the
difficulty and check out the crowd.

They are going absolute bananas
back there, Woods.

We are super pumped
to have front-row seats

to the best live action
in Australia.

This year's course is the fastest,

most dynamic, most exciting course
ever built.

So, if you want to make the semis,

the need for speed
has never been more important.

Here are the obstacles
our ninjas will be facing tonight.

First up, it's the hardest starting
obstacle we've ever had made harder.

Five Shrinking Steps
have become eight,

each one smaller and higher
as they go.

Lose your balance here and
it's almost impossible to recover.

Then, for the first time
on Australian Ninja Warrior,

the Eagles Claw.

It's a massive 2.8-metre jump
to the first of two claws.

The claws are much heavier
than the ninjas

and generating swing can be tricky.

Plus, the transfer to the
second claw isn't straightforward.

They're offset by one metre,
making that lache even tougher.

Obstacle three is the Domino Effect

and it's another test
of speed and balance.

Ninjas must attack the five dominoes
but do it delicately.

The gaps and heights vary
and the dominoes spin.

If ninjas lean back,
their number will be up.

Obstacle four is a world first,
designed to test mind and body.

It's the Anaconda.

There are two ways to tackle it.

Ninjas can use the 27
grip-killing doorknobs

that snake their way up and down
the Anaconda.

They can also use any or all
of the three lache bars.

It's a faster but riskier option
because, at three metres,

it's the longest lache
we've ever had in the heats.

(GROANS)

Obstacle five sees the return
of the Ring Chaser.

Ninjas race a ring along six bars.

If they're too slow,
they'll miss or drop the ring,

bringing the second-chance ring into
play, but it's much, much smaller.

Four skyhooks then
need to be navigated.

Too much backswing can dislodge
the ring and precision is the key.

And then, standing in the way
of every ninja's goal,

the 4.35-metre Warped Wall.

They have three attempts
to make it up the wall

to hit that coveted buzzer.

Tonight is the first of four heats

with only our top 18 ninjas
moving onto the Semi-Finals stage.

And, in each of these four heats,

the four ninjas who
go furthest fastest

will grab the chance to win a unique
advantage in the Semi-Finals.

Last year, our ninjas clashed
in the Power Tower.

This year, they'll face off
in the Power Pool.

Tonight, this is
the ninjas' endgame.

The four fastest will compete head
to head across and five metres above

the water with the victor
grabbing a Semi-Final advantage.

This pool is epic in size and prize.

Conquer the Power Pool

and the path to the Grand Final
becomes a whole lot easier.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

OK, this is it.

Australia, hold on tight.

Let's bring out our very first ninja
for 2022.

Let him hear it. It's Kahil Evans.

Alright, we got Kahil Evans here,
the rock god!

Pump up for it.

Good. Alright, let's go.

(GUITAR RIFF)

I've always liked rock'n'roll
music, growing up on it,

you know, my dad showed me
all his old records and stuff.

You know, your AC/DCs,
your Guns N' Roses, the classics.

(STRUMMING ALONG WITH DRUM BEAT)

Oh, these are cool.

And then I set myself
a task of making a guitar.

Now I just make 'em for fun.
I love it.

Yeah, just rock'n'roll, man.

Never done Ninja Warrior before

but I'm gonna do it in jeans
and give her a whirl.

(CHUCKLES)

It sorta goes with the
rock'n'roll, I suppose.

I've been watching Ninja Warrior
since season one

and I'm more than ready
to give her a right hot go.

I'm the Rock'n'Roll Ninja and I'm
here to climb Mount Midoriyama.

Is this guy a ninja
or a lead singer?

Well, he certainly knows
how to put on a show, Jim.

Wow, he's getting the crowd going.
Oh!

Jeez, he's got some presence,
doesn't he?

Does wear jeans.

Why do you wear the jeans?

Just come from uni.

Nice.

Jeans will be interesting.

OK, get ready, Australia.

The first ninja of 2022
is about to tear up this course.

Go get 'em, Kahil.

(KLAXON RINGS)

And here we go.

This year, we've added an extra
couple of steps just to keep

our ninjas on their toes, and
Kahil shreds the Shrinking Steps.

That's the first obstacle out
of the way and he's loving it.

Alright.

The Eagles Claw here.

This one, you've gotta
hit a launch button

when you get to the end of this
ramp and then grab on, hold on!

That was just like
a 2.8-metre stage dive

but now he has to go sideways, yes.

That's one metre across
and he just nailed it.

He's putting on a show.

What are we seeing here?

That looked really smooth
for this first timer.

He really pumps up the crowd,
this bloke.

Alright. Two down.

Now comes the Domino Effect.
Here he goes.

Come on, here we go,
the dominoes, and he's over!

Where did this kid come from?

How's he doing this in jeans? That's
the question I've got for you.

Outrageous! Now the Anaconda.

Never been seen
anywhere in the world.

Is he gonna lache
or use the doorknobs?

He's gonna go the knobs.

The longest lache we've ever had
in the heats, too long for Kahil.

He can change his mind at any time.

He's got some serious grip strength
on display here.

Keep going!

Looks like he's gonna go for
the lache for his dismount.

Kicking it up and Kahil Evans

will be the first ninja
to complete the Anaconda!

Great army roll.

Gee, the headband's off.
Oh, the headband's off.

He's burning time
getting his headband going

but he's got a nice Axl Rose groove
there, doesn't he?

He does and he could soon
be in Paradise City

because the Ring Chaser
is the second-last obstacle.

Then it's the Warped Wall.

How much grip strength has he
got left after the doorknobs

because he needs to catch
that rolling ring.

It's gonna trigger once he hits
the first monkey bar, there it goes.

One, two, three.

He didn't get it.
Oh, no! No, no!

He's dropped the ring.

Second-chance ring.

Don't forget, smaller hole
than the bigger one.

Oh, this makes it tricky.

But it's not over for Kahil.

He has another shot.

He's just gotta use
the smaller second-chance ring.

It takes finesse, it takes accuracy.

Now he's gotta generate
some momentum.

Oh, he's got the sideways swing.

He's gotta reset.

But this is smart.

He's using the bar to correct
the swing and he's winding up.

Here he goes.

Oh, he's missed it!
Oh!

He's in the pool but
what a performance.

What a star.

(CHEERING)

He's saying he's missed it
by that much.

Kahil showed skill and strength
over the course

but the doorknobs really punished
his arms and he would feel those

on the Ring Chaser with that ring
just bouncing out of his hand.

But, boy, did he get close
with the second-chance ring.

Just missing it by a whisker.

Unlucky, Kahil, but what a debut.

Kahil, mate, you gotta
be chuffed with that.

Congratulations.
How good is that?

If we get the music going again,

can I see a bit of air guitar
on the second-chance ring?

Let's have a look.

Bang!

(LAUGHS)

Great stuff, mate.
Hey, how are you feeling?

I missed it by that much
but, you know,

gave her a go,
can't do much more than that.

Yeah, buddy!

Hey, great job, Kahil. Hopefully,
see you in the semis, mate.

Yeah, mate, hope so, too.
All the best, brother.

Cheers, mate.
Round of applause for Kahil!

Will poolside there with the ninja
of the moment, Kahil Evans.

That was an absolutely
stellar performance

from one of our newcomers.

Now let's see how a veteran
handles this 2022 course.

One of just three women to compete
in every season of Ninja Warrior,

our next ninja always sizzles.

Back to bring home the bacon,
it's Celeste Dixon.

(DYNAMIC MUSIC)

I've been lucky enough

to do all five seasons of Ninja,
one of three girls.

An elite gymnast for ten years.

Yes!

I also want to inspire
anyone who's young

to actually try out for the show.

I feel like the teens this year are
gonna show Australia what's next.

You ripper!

Tonight, my cheerleaders
on the sideline

are gonna be my dad, of course.

Bring home the bacon.

I love my dad's get-up.

I mean, he loves to be recognised
as the bacon man.

Sizzle, sizzle,
bacon on the griddle!

But, in the same instance,
I'm like, oh, god.

So, whatever.

Now, that's what I'm talking about!

Bring home the bacon!

It's time for me to
bring home that bacon.

You can do this!

You've done it before!

Dad Steven bringing home the bacon
and not just the bacon, Jim.

He's topped with an egg this year.

He's an egghead.

If your parents ever embarrassed you
on the sidelines at sport,

you're probably feeling
better about yourself now.

Sizzle, sizzle,
bacon on the griddle!

Oh, he's still got the energy,
there's no doubt,

and what about her, 36 years
old, she's in marvellous condition.

This is amazing to see her
tackle this one more time.

Bring home the bacon!

(KLAXON RINGS)

And here she is
on the Shrinking Steps.

Great balance there.

Too easy.

Alright, now it's the Eagles Claw.

It's a big jump, 2.8 metres,
Celeste just 1.68 metres,

and, to get some swing going,
she'll need to hit it with speed.

Bring home the bacon!

We know from past seasons

Celeste has terrific technique
and she's generating good momentum,

getting plenty of speed,
but she's gonna have to go sideways.

Yeah, she should've gone there, Jim.
Come on!

(GROANS)

Oh, no!
No, no!

I thought she was gonna
really crush that.

You're a champ!

You're a champ, Celeste!

Oh, that's a huge shock.

I don't think anyone expected that.

I don't know if you can
see this at home

but the eagle claws are angled,
so it's actually a lot harder

than you think to lache
from one to the other.

Like, you're on an angle
which makes it really difficult.

The Eagles Claw is a tough obstacle,
especially for our smaller ninjas.

Celeste probably should've gone
on her second swing

because the third
robbed her of distance

and she only just got her fingertips
to it and couldn't hang on.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

A tough break for Celeste Dixon,
one of the Ninja veterans,

and that should serve as a warning

to the new breed of ninjas who are
itching to get on this course.

Yes, Jim, it's now time to find out

whether our 16- and 17-year-olds
have what it takes.

They've been working
with some Ninja legends

and will compete
against them tonight.

Here's Will and Woody.

We are here with two
Ninja Warrior legends

in Ben Polson and Flashlin Ashlin
who are here with their mini-mes.

Alright, I've got Flashlin Ashlin
over here.

Ashlin, what's it like
to have somebody

who's also changed their name,

we've got Ash who's your mini-me,
to be just like you?

Yeah, look, it's good.

He's an absolute weapon

so I'm really looking forward to how
he's gonna go on the course tonight.

Yeah, beautiful.

Now, Ashlin's normally
a man of few words.

Ash, I heard you're quite eloquent.

Oh, well, yeah, it's great
to be standing here next to

one of the biggest role models, I
think, in Australian Ninja Warrior.

It's gonna be pretty good
to run the same course as him

and give him a bit of a challenge.

Can you beat him?

Oh, I think I'd have to
give it a fair old go.

Wow, boy!
Gee!

So, we've got mini-me Ben Polson.

Saxon, what does it mean

to be standing next to
your role model here?

He's an absolute inspiration.

It means a lot to be
standing here with him.

What's your main piece of advice
for Saxon tonight?

It's awesome.

You know, these guys
are obviously very young

but they can't be underestimated.

I know what he's capable of
and it's terrifying.

Wowee, can you beat Ben?
Oh, definitely.

Oh, wow.
Gee whiz.

He's right here.
Dude, thanks a lot.

I mean, it is the attack of the
teens. It's gonna be red hot.

So, this is my mini-me, Saxon,
who's only 17 years old.

And this is my big-me, Ben Polson,
who's 29 years old.

You're the man.

Ever since season one of
Australian Ninja Warrior,

Ben Polson's always been my idol.

And I'm hoping that I can try
and follow in his footsteps.

I built this obstacle course

to practice climbing and running
and jumping and balance.

I started a Ninja Warrior-style
bootcamp in my backyard.

Since then, fell in love with Ninja.

And that's Ninja Warrior Saxon.

Me and Mum have always been
really close.

We always used to do
sports together, but...

..she developed
an auto-immune disease.

I've watched Mum go from
her fit, healthy self

running half-marathons
to now occasionally in a wheelchair.

Let's go, Saxon!

It's inspired me to keep going
and do what she now can't,

and that's why I feel like,
tonight, I'm here,

I'll be running the course
for both of us.

Definitely very nervous to go
up against some of the top guns,

but my goal tonight in the heats

is to get up that wall
and hit that buzzer.

So, move over, Ben Polson,
I'm comin' for ya.

OK.

Here he is, the youngest ninja
to ever take the course.

These next-gen ninjas are fast
and fearless and they're light.

Their power-to-weight ratio
is a big advantage.

Will he get to hit the buzzer?

He's got the right mentors,
Ben Polson there on the sideline.

He's given them all the tips.

Got his mum, his dad,
his sister there, as well.

But one thing we always
have to be mindful of,

it's his first time on the course.

He's gotta be a little anxious,
a little nervous.

How does that affect him?

I mean, you can tell by looking
at him, he is a mini Ben Polson.

This is...

Oh, bit of a gun show
from you, Saxon.

Here we go. Mini Ben Polson,
let's see if he can beat him.

Send it, Saxon.

(KLAXON RINGS)

Alright, there's the buzzer.

Here he comes for the first time.

And that was flawless.

That's some Ben Polson style
right there.

Go, Saxon!

Over to the claw!

Great momentum, great strength,
great control.

Onto the second one.

The 17-year-old nailing
obstacle two, the Eagles Claw.

Work it out. You got it.
You got it.

This kid is special.

There's a real confidence,
a real air about him.

Can he get across the dominoes?

Oh, oh!

His foot hit the pad,
not the water, so he's good.

He's gonna make it.
Yes, he's going to.

Keep going, keep going.

Oh, that was so close!

What a save!
That was so close.

No more scares, please, Saxon.

Alright, no rest for the weary.
I'm still recovering!

Back... oh, he's not.

He's onto obstacle four,
the Anaconda,

and he's gonna bypass
the faster lache option,

taking the safer route.

He must really want that buzzer.

Saxon says he can hang onto a bar
for 25 minutes.

He's match-fit but this gap is
one of two tough transitions, Jim.

He's got good technique, too,

keeps those arms fairly
locked on the Anaconda,

uses the legs for swing.

Saxon!
(CHANTING)

We're seeing something special here.

This teen is bringing it here
on Ninja.

Look at the crossover move!

And listen to the crowd
getting behind him.

Make sure of it!

And he's got it.
Oh, yes!

Nice work.

He is powering through this course.

But he'll be fatigued
after that, though.

One obstacle to go
before the Warped Wall.

The Ring Chaser, he's gotta
get onto that first monkey bar,

that triggers the ring in motion

and then you gotta chase it, get
down to the bottom and get it, go!

Race it down. Has he got it?

With his foot!

Oh!
He got it with his foot!

That is unbelievable!

That was extraordinary!

He is 17 and that is
one of the greatest saves

in Australian
Ninja Warrior history!

That's a new one.

He did not just get that
with his foot.

These teens, they're creative
and that was a dominant move.

They are doing it their way.

I've never seen Ben Polson do that.

He's gonna make it, Leila.
Come on!

Come on!

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

This is history right here,
the first teen to get up the wall?

Is he gonna do it?

Come on.
Come on, Saxon.

Let's go, Saxon.
Come on, Saxon.

He's done it.
What an incredible moment.

The attack of the teens!
Yes, baby!

He's up here!
Whoo!

Wowee, that is huge.

Saxon making history tonight.

The first 17-year-old
up the Warped Wall!

What a run!

What a ninja!

Saxon Johnstone.

The first teen to tackle this course

becomes the first ninja
to hit the buzzer in 2022.

And what about this recovery?

Unbelievable reflexes and presence
of mind to stick out his foot.

If he was holding on
with his left hand,

he wouldn't have had his back to
the ring but, somehow, someway,

he has pulled off one of the
all-time great Ninja saves.

There was no way he wasn't
gonna make it to the top.

Well done, Saxon Johnstone.

You've been dreaming
about this moment for years.

You've pictured this in your mind,
you've watched it on TV.

You're here.

You've finally hit the buzzer.

What does that feel like?

It's amazing. I can't explain it.

It's just...

This feeling inside that I've been
waiting four years now to get to.

It just feels awesome.

Yeah, you're shaking
with excitement.

That's the good stuff, man,
that's what sport is all about.

You dream it and then you do it.

Talk us through the course here.

Got lucky on the skyhook there.

Oh!

Caught it in my foot which...

That was an amazing save.

Let's see if we can
get it on the screen.

Tell us what's going on here.

I couldn't see the ring,

I was hoping that I'd make it there,
and...

Oh!
(CROWD EXCLAIMS)

Feels crazy to watch.

I could see the ring falling,
I knew I wasn't going to reach it,

so I just thought, stick the
foot out, hope for the best.

I don't think Ben can do that.
I'm gonna be honest.

I mean, I'd like to see him try.

(LAUGHTER)

Well done.

Alright, Australia, get behind
this new Ninja superstar here,

Saxon Johnstone.

Welcome, big guy.

That was awesome.

Amazing to see a 17-year-old
conquer the Warped Wall,

and he's laid down a solid marker
for Ben Polson who will run soon.

The young guns are just warming up.

Ash Campbell is one to watch.

The sting-ray is on your tail.

This is the next generation.

Up next, it's the
ultimate family fight.

It's mum versus son
on the course this year.

Careful, I'll friggin'
put you in a headlock.

The next generation have one goal -
beat the legends at their own game.

I'm a 5-time ninja so let's see
if these youngsters can keep up.

I'm just gonna have to rely on, you
know, old-man grit and experience.

That's pretty much all I've got.

Welcome back to
Australian Ninja Warrior

where a new generation of ninjas
has exploded onto the scene.

And what an amazing start.

Before the break,
we witnessed history in the making

as 17-year-old Saxon Johnstone
conquered the Warped Wall,

becoming the youngest ninja
to hit that buzzer.

That's an achievement
that our next ninja

has dreamed of for four long years.

A former NRL player
and a 102kg mass of muscle,

tonight, he's determined to finally
get a crack at the Warped Wall.

Our heaviest competitor again this
year with hands-down the best hair,

it's Eloni Vunakece.

The best thing about
being a garbo is...

..that I finish early enough to go
and do the funner things in life.

Boop!

Oh, look at the power!

Ninja Warrior, for me, basically,

I see myself as
a kindergarten kid trying to jump

to the fourth monkey bar

on a set of monkey bars at school.

I'm the world's biggest kid

and I get to just still
be a kid on this show.

Last time I ran the course,
unfortunately, I fell again.

So, I've never got
to the Warped Wall.

Oh!

Oh, no!

That bloody wall just eludes me.

So, this year, I have to show
these young guns how to do it.

I'm more determined than ever to get
up that wall and smash a buzzer.

And by smash a buzzer,
I mean, actually smash a buzzer.

You guys are gonna have to replace
the buzzer when I get up there.

And look at his beautiful family.

We love seeing them here every year
and what a thrill if they get to see

their dad make it to the top
of the Warped Wall tonight.

My family here and my family.

And, of course,
Eloni, Will and Woody

appeared together on
'Celebrity Apprentice'.

We absolutely love this bloke.

This is Loni Vunakece.

The three of us actually
call ourselves the Tripod.

ALL: Tripod!

Feeling alright?
I'm good. Let's go.

Yeah, he's pumped.
Let's go. Send it.

He's massive.
Ex-rugby league player.

He is an Adonis,
he's a weapon of a man

and he's a beautiful bloke, as well.

We... we're right behind him here,
right behind him.

Come on, Loni!

Can he finally, finally
get that buzzer?

Go, Dad!
Go, Dad!

Here we go, here we go.

(KLAXON RINGS)

Straight across the Shrinking Steps

without a care in the world
and onto the Eagles Claw.

He's an experienced ninja,
no problem,

gets the lock off of the arms
at 90 degrees.

Ooh!
He's going for speed here.

11 seconds to the end
of the Eagles Claw.

That is lightning fast.

Over the dominoes, he did it!

Massive, massive save.

He just overpowered it,
absolutely overpowered it,

but this is not something you
can overpower, the Anaconda.

You gotta start on these doorknobs,
work your way up,

and the big question is
will he go for the lache

'cause no-one's done it yet?

Can he lache?

Well, he's so heavy
he's gonna have to lache.

He can't go the knobs the whole
time, man, he's just too big.

It's just not his forte,
he's gonna have to lache.

You're gonna have to lache, bro,
come on.

Now, will he use the lache bars?

No, he's gonna keep going,
look at him.

He's taken the hard road

but he clearly thinks this is
his best chance, I'm not sure.

He's suffering, Leila, as a result.

Not sure he could make the laches,
maybe he's not sure, but you can see

he is in full strain mode here
and this is gonna be tough.

No!
That was it.

Oh, no!
Some splash!

Any water left in the pool?

Oh!

I really wanted to see him
get to that wall.

Eloni might not have
made it to the buzzer

but he was flying and speed's
the name of the game this year.

He raced through the first three
obstacles in less than 20 seconds.

We'll have to wait and see

but maybe that speed
will get him to the semis.

Tripod!

Sorry, man, I'm so wet.
Yeah, I can see that.

You actually already drenched us
when you splashed in the pool.

Sorry, man, I'm just disappointed.

Can you make them a little bit
bigger next year, please?

The knobs?
The knobs, man, the knobs.

It's, yeah, disappointing,

but it is what it is, Ninja,
it's just hard and it's bigger

and better this year, so I knew
I gotta try and hit things fast.

That's why I was trying to just get
through things as quick as I could

so it all comes down
to speed in the end.

We love you, bro,
hopefully we see you in the semis.

Thank you, my brothers, thank you.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Yes, that's not the last
we'll be seeing of Eloni tonight.

He's been moonlighting as a coach

for one of our guests
in a very special event.

It's the first Australian
Ninja Warrior Celebrity Challenge.

Singer Jack Vidgen
has Eloni as his coach.

Soccer legend Archie Thompson

has current Ninja Warrior champion
Zak Stolz.

And Olympic gold swimmer
Emily Seebohm

has Josh O'Sullivan, joint world
record holder on the Warped Wall.

Wicked.

They've been training to
take on the course tonight

all in the name of charity.

Oh, so close!

And joining them backstage now
is Will and Woody.

Feeling confident, guys?
No.

Why not? Why not, Archie?
Talk me through it.

Well, I only knew what a lache was
about two days ago, and...

You're in trouble.
I'm in big trouble.

But, for me, it makes sense,

two elite athletes are going out
there which makes sense to me but...

This does not make sense.

What are you doing, Jack?

That's a great question.

OK, well, let's talk to Emily.

Emily, you're
a professional athlete.

Yeah.

Obviously, you're normally
in the pool,

trying to stay
out of the pool tonight.

Exactly.
How are you gonna go?

I'm trying to run on water tonight,
that's what I'm hoping for.

I'm winging it.
OK. Beautiful.

So, we've got female Jesus
walking on water.

We've got the lache master.

And singing sensation Jack Vidgin.

These guys are gonna kill it.

Thanks, Woody, we can't wait.

The celebrities will be hitting
the course a little later on.

But, first, we have a 17-year-old

whose ninja mum has taught him
everything he knows.

Kobe!

Here's Kobe Teede.

I'm Kobe Teede
and this is my mum, Emma.

She's 46 and I'm gonna hope...

not hope, I'm gonna
beat you tonight.

We'll see.

Next up tonight is Emma Teede.

So, after seeing my mum
do Ninja Warrior in season one...

Taylor and Kobe, her kids,
are on the sideline.

..just knowing how hard it was

and her not being able
to finish the course,

I just had the urge to get over
the line and just finish it for her.

Ever since then, I've been
training for Ninja Warrior.

To be honest,
I'm actually really proud.

Special moments like this
don't happen all the time.

I'll be excited for him to
experience the whole lot.

There are some pretty
big names out tonight,

but it's gonna be pretty
cool going against Mum.

Do I need to bring a towel?

Oh, you smarty-pants.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

This is Kobe Teede.

He's inspired by his mum
who is also taking on tonight.

She's on the sidelines
supporting Kobe.

Kobe!
(CHANTING)

Good luck, Kobe.

(KLAXON RINGS)

OK, Kobe, second-generation ninja.

His mum, Emma, is a ninja, too,
competing in this season.

Let's see what you've got.

Ninja's in his blood as he
comes to the Eagles Claw.

This is a new obstacle
and it is cruel, Jim.

Yeah, you gotta get up there
on the ledge.

You gotta do the lache.
Oh!

He just nailed that one and
they are not straight line

but he was able to make
a straight move through.

That was brilliant.

Just clinging on with the
very tips of his fingers.

The Domino Effect, here we go,
come on, Kobe.

You can do this.
And is he gonna make it?

Yes!
No problem.

Pumps the crowd up.

Oh, the flex to the crowd,
he loves it.

And now he's gonna
have to pump his arms up

'cause this is where it gets tricky.

Onto the Anaconda.

Yeah, Kobe has a big decision
to make now.

There are 27 doorknobs or does he
go the way of the 3-metre lache?

The largest we've ever had
in the heats.

It's a tough choice.

Lache! Lache!

Yeah, Emma is screaming for Kobe
to go with the lache.

Kobe has to decide now

whether he wants to keep up the pace
and lache across the Anaconda.

Feet up, feet up!

Oh, he's not taking mum's advice.

Oh!
(GROANS)

Oh!

Just slid off the Anaconda.

He should've listened to mum.

Kobe set himself to lache
across the Anaconda

but had a change of heart
when he saw the distance.

He tried to save time by skipping
a few knobs on the way down

but he didn't have the strength,
and it was into the pool.

Another powerhouse performance
from one of our teens.

Kobe Teede setting the bar high
for mum

when she takes the course
a little later tonight.

Stick around.

There's plenty more Ninja action
right after this.

Still to come...

At first glance, it's like, wow,
this is high.

Who will make the
all-new Power Pool?

It's definitely intimidating,
I'm not gonna lie.

When tonight's four fastest ninjas

face off in knockout races in
the most diabolical endgame ever?

I want it bad.

They'll race head to head
across, up and back over the pool

a frightening five metres
above the water.

You don't really want to
be falling down from that.

It's terrifying.

They will have to fight their fear
and each other.

(KLAXON BLARES)

Get ready, Australia,
the Power Pool is coming.

Thanks to Energizer, who will
battle it out in the Power Pool?

The top four ninjas
will advance to tonight's endgame

and race for a huge advantage.

Who will win?

Get ready to vote later
in the show at:

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Well, welcome back to
the thrilling new season

of Australian Ninja Warrior
here at Sydney Olympic Park.

This is the fastest and the most
technically demanding course

we've ever devised as ninja
after ninja is discovering.

Proud First Nations Kamillaroi man
Clinton Schultz came to conquer.

Bring it, Clinton, bring it.

But his hands let him down
on the second obstacle.

Oh, no!

I thought he had it!

He had the distance,
just not the grip.

19-year-old outdoor educator
Jack Hodgson

unleashed his enthusiasm early.

But, like so many ninjas tonight,

this newcomer met his match
on the Anaconda.

Oh!
Yeah.

He did so well, it's just fatigue.

20-year-old former elite gymnast
Sophie Stuart

had plenty of sideline support.

The gymnasts she coaches encouraged
her to hit the Ninja course.

(SQUEALING)

Looks like some espresso beans
down there.

She even brought a coach of her own,

her uncle, Ivan Cleary,
an NRL Premiership winner,

and Sophie tackled the
Eagles Claw with 100% commitment.

She's done it!

Oh, no!
Oh, no!

Oh, what a spectacular fall.
Wow. Ooh...

And that's a shock but her
gymnastics students and uncle Ivan

should be very proud of her tonight.

That was a gutsy performance.

Yes, it's been a tough night so far
for our ninjas.

It's time to shake,
rattle and roll things up.

And who better to do it than
this 20-year-old first-time ninja

who feels right at home

surrounded by the sights
and sounds of the 1950s,

so let's fire up the Ninja jukebox
because we're playing his tune.

It's Robert Ciccarelli.

(1950s DANCE MUSIC)

Outside of fitness, I've got
a huge passion for '50s/'60s music.

And I pretty much blame my nonna.

It's completely her fault.

As soon as I came out of the womb,
I was listening to Frank Sinatra,

and incredibly matriarchal,
Italian families,

you do what nonna says.

Also growing up,
I really loved 'Happy Days'

and none other than Fonzie
was my inspiration,

so, hey,
I'm outspoken, honest, handsome.

You know, looks can be deceiving.

I think I've always
had a natural aptitude

for flying through the air
and thought I'd go from sitting

in front of the TV with Mum, Dad
and Nonna and Nonno

to swinging through the bars on TV,
and I know I'm gonna put on

a great show for Australia and
no-one's gonna know what hit 'em.

Go, Robert!

(SQUEALING)

That's my boy!

(LAUGHTER)

Yes, Robert Ciccarelli has done a
Fonzie "Eh!" to start, I love it.

He's our 1950s Ninja.

Let's see how he goes on the course.

I'm as curious as Will and Woody
and I dig a confident athlete,

but, if you talk it,
you better walk it.

(KLAXON RINGS)

OK, here he goes.

And he is walking it, Jim.

He's sneaking his way
across the Shrinking Steps,

a little bit wobbly but he made it.

Go, Rob!

I don't think we've seen anyone
tiptoe quite like that.

A little cautious on his feet.

Now to test his grip strength.

It's fingertips only up here.

Come on, Robert. Can he hold on?

Yes, he can, and look at
the momentum he's generating.

Solid start.

Let's check out the lache.

He's got a pretty good swing
and that's a great catch.

It's not the fastest start
but he's in total control.

And a classy dismount.

First-time ninja
doing some veteran moves out here.

The whole thing's just a show
with Ciccarelli.

And I'm buying tickets.

Alright, it's the Domino Effect.

Gotta get past these five dominoes,
light and quick if you can.

Yes, no tiptoeing over the dominoes.

He needs to move like
greased lightning.

He's across.

He's a bit of a surprise package,
the Cicc.

Now, this one's a tricky one.

He gets a choice and he looks
like he's not sure what to do.

Lache? Lache?

If you need the lache...

Trust yourself, trust yourself.

I think he's going lache.

He was asking for input
from his team down there.

He's got a good eye
on that lache bar.

Let's see if he can get
up there smoothly.

Ooh, he's hanging low, though,
isn't he?

He's going to have to be quick

if he's not gonna fatigue
on these knobs.

But will he back himself
and go for the lache?

There are no easy choices
on the Anaconda.

I think he's gotta lache.

He'll be the first to do it
if he does

and it looks like he's going to.

It's the fastest but, at
three metres, the riskiest option.

Alright, he's gonna have to launch.

He's getting a bit of momentum.

Go, go!

Ooh!
Ooh!

Oh, Robert!

Not so happy days.

Robert Ciccarelli rocked
an unorthodox style on the course,

but he was the first ninja
to attempt the Anaconda lache.

His decision to use a mixed grip
robbed him of power and distance

and, just like that, splish-splash,
Robert Ciccarelli was taking a bath.

How about that, eh?

That was a memorable performance
from Robert,

but he's not the only ninja who has
a knack for putting on a good show.

Every time this next ninja
hits the course,

it has been a spectacle to watch.

But, even though
he brings the drama,

he has stormed his way to the
Grand Final every single year.

Can he make it six out of six?

All the way from WA,
it's the Tradie Ninja, Sam Goodall.

Can you see my shirt?

Hey, guys, Tradie Ninja's here
and I'm back again, six in a row.

If you look at that
camera angle there

and he's not doing this easily,
is he?

I'm definitely known for
ugly runs on the course.

Have a rest, honey!

I've really developed
that need for speed

and I've made the Grand Final
every year.

Oh, no!
Oh, he rushed it!

But I still haven't won.

BEN FORDHAM: Who doesn't love
a tradie?

The nickname Tradie Ninja
sorta stuck from season one

when I rocked up in my hi-vis
because I'd just come from work

and it's stuck ever since.

This year, I've slipped on
a pink shirt for my daughter.

I came home from work one day
and she said,

"Daddy, why don't you ever
wear my pink shirts?"

So, this year,
it's a pink shirt on Ninja.

Oh!
What a landing!

For me, coming back year after year,
it's been amazing to see

the way we've inspired the
younger generation to come on board.

But I'm starting to feel like
the old dog on the scene,

so just, please, you know, leave
a little bit at the end for us.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Here he is, I love this bloke,
his name is Sam Goodall

and he's wearing pink tonight

for his wife and his
three daughters, I love it.

Hi, Daddy!

You can see the family there
cheering him on.

He'll hopefully be able to use that
for this run on the course.

We love you!
We know you can go all the way!

You got this!

Alright, what does he have in
his bag of tricks for us tonight?

Come on.

Tradie Ninja Sam Goodall, here we go
across the Shrinking Steps.

There's a few more there this year
but didn't bother him a bit.

Nope, no worries whatsoever.

What about the Eagles Claw?

Off the ramp,
nice lock-off with his arms

and generating huge momentum here.

Whoa!
Oh!

He had to reach for that one, Leila?
Didn't he?

And he's headed off course a little
bit but he's made a good recovery.

He's going for speed here.

This is a quick start
for the Tradie Ninja.

He's not mucking around...

Oh, no!
Oh, no!

He's down!

Oh, no.
Oh, that's a...

that's a blunder.

He is down.
The Tradie Ninja in the drink.

Oh, I did not see that coming.
No, I'm stunned.

He seems stunned, too.
Sam Goodall.

Well, this course is all about speed
and Sam delivered on that.

He made a great save
on the Eagles Claw,

but he couldn't recover after
a wobbly start on the dominoes.

A top-18 spot is required in this
heat to advance to the Semi-Finals

so it's going to be a nervous wait
for Sam Goodall.

He's never missed out
on the Grand Finals,

but this could be the year
he watches from the stands.

OK, stay with us.

Still to come, some heavyweights
of Australian Ninja Warrior.

Flashlin Ashlin is back
and he's looking faster than ever.

But, next, 4-time Grand Finalist

and Warped Wall world record holder,
the first person

to be crowned Australian
Ninja Warrior, Ben Polson.

I'm back for my sixth season

and it's time to show
these young guns how it's done.

Welcome back to
Australian Ninja Warrior

where ninjas have been
testing themselves

on the road to Mount Midoriyama.

Jobie Wright, a 17-year-old student
from Adelaide,

can dead hang for 13 minutes

but his time on the course
was a little shorter.

He went left.

You gotta go straight.
Oh!

Really tough to correct.

31-year-old Chris Nayna from
Melbourne made an early impression.

Splendid legs, Chris.

Oh, a little flex for the boys.
Gee whiz.

It was a tentative start for the
second-heaviest ninja in this heat,

although he had the muscle
to handle the Eagles Claw.

Come on! Yes!
Let's go, go!

But you can't outmuscle
obstacle number three.

You gotta move on this one,
can't take your time.

No!

Another one bites the dust
in the Domino Effect.

Emma Teede had one goal when
she hit the course tonight,

to beat her 17-year-old son, Kobe,
by beating the Anaconda.

But the 46-year-old took
a heavy tumble on the dominoes...

Oh, no! You were so close!

..handing her son
family bragging rights.

So, from one experienced female
ninja to a 16-year-old newbie.

It's time to welcome our
youngest ever female ninja.

She's a state-level swimmer

and she's on the Ninja
starting blocks ready to rumble.

Here's 16-year-old Chanel Simsic.

I speak a little bit
of Slovenian, yes.

(SPEAKS SLOVENIAN)

Hello. Like, my name's Chanel.

My dad's side of the family
is all up there,

so we speak it every now and then
around the house.

I swim eight times a week.

I've been competing since I was ten.

My swimming skills will probably be
a lot of use to me,

just, like,
that upper-body strength,

and I'm the youngest female
to take on the course,

which is pretty exciting.

Yeah, I just want to do well just
to kind of prove, like, you know,

whatever everyone else can do,
so can I.

I'm always in the pool but tonight
my goal is to stay dry.

Well, Chanel isn't just
an elite swimmer,

she's also an accomplished gymnast.

With those skills, I wonder

if she can follow in the footsteps
of the legend Olivia Vivian.

This is attack of the teens
this year.

She's 16 years old.

She speaks Slovenian,
actually, Woods,

and I know you also
speak it fluently.

Absolutely.

(SPEAKS SLOVENIAN)

Yeah!

Nailed it!
Let's see how she goes.

For our non-Slovenian-speaking
viewers tonight,

Woody just wished Chanel good luck.

(KLAXON RINGS)

Here she goes.

Come on, Chanel.
Get going, get moving.

Yes, that's one.

She's hoping her swimming experience
will help her with her strength

and balance, but we don't want
to see any swimming here tonight.

That's right, she's gotta
stay above the water here

and she needs to get really high.

She needs big speed to
get to the Eagles Claw.

Ooh, bit of a false start.
Whoa!

It's a big jump,
2.8 metres to the first claw.

She's gotta really send this launch.
She's gotta go.

Ooh.
You gotta commit!

(GROANS)

Oh, no, Chanel.
No.

Oh, I think the nerves
got the better of her.

Whoo-hoo!

Chanel found just the right
combination of speed and balance

on the Shrinking Steps,

but, approaching the Eagles Claw,
keep an eye on her right foot,

she just oversteps the take-off and
that robbed her of some distance.

(CHEERING)

Hey, Chanel. How are ya?
Lovely to meet you.

Congratulations, mate, you're the
youngest ever girl on this course.

Have you got a message for
the other women out there

who are thinking of doing it?

Just go for it, you know?

If you want to do it,
you can put your mind to it

and achieve anything you want,
so, girls rule.

Hey, love that, Chanel, thanks
so much, mate, congratulations.

Give it up for Chanel again,
everyone!

Yeah, well done, Chanel.

Every ninja's journey
has to start somewhere,

just as it did for our next ninja.

Alright, Jim.

Alright, Leila.
It's time.

He's the only person to be crowned
an Australian Ninja Warrior.

Need we say more?

He's the record-holder on
the Rising Mega Warped Wall.

He is feared and utterly fearless.

BOTH: Ben Polson!

Ladies and gentlemen, the
Australian Ninja Warrior champion,

the first to conquer Mount
Midoriyama and claim the prize.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

I am, honestly,
super privileged and proud

to be one of only 11 people
to do all six seasons.

Season one, it still feels like
it was yesterday.

He's pretty tall.
What the...?

He didn't even need a run-up.
Holy what?

Because...
(BUZZER BLARES)

Season three was my
worst season ever.

I unfortunately didn't
make the Grand Final.

We know Ben Polson is a machine.

Oh!

But I think I learned a lot
from that failure,

which made season four
my most successful ever.

Look at the arms pumping!

Look at the legs pumping!

Mount Midoriyama is almost done!

He gets up through the hole!
He's done it!

The first Australian Ninja Warrior
is Ben Polson!

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

I don't know what to expect
when it comes to these young guns.

These are kids which
grew up watching me

and now they're
competing alongside me.

You know, they'll be on my heels.

I'm getting old now,
I'm getting wrinkly.

Season six, here we go.

And here he is, Ben Polson,
4-time Grand Finalist

and the first and only Australian
to be crowned a Ninja Warrior.

And there's Olivia Vivian supporting
as well as 17-year-old

Saxon Johnstone who, earlier,
laid down a blistering time of 2:32.

I dare say Ben's gonna want to beat
that time and send a strong message

to the young guys, saying
the old guard aren't done yet.

(KLAXON RINGS)

Well, we know he's got
eyes on the clock.

He's gonna want to get
into that Power Pool,

so quickly through
the first obstacle.

Deals with the Shrinking Steps,
now time for the Eagles Claw.

Well, changes his mind
and that'll cost him time.

You've got this.
Come on!

Come on, Ben Polson.
Show 'em how it's done.

Come on.

This isn't like Ben Polson.

He's taking extra swings.

Are we witnessing
a changing of the guard?

Ben's not looking comfortable
at the moment.

Ben Polson six seconds slower
than Saxon Johnstone at this point.

Now, he needs to pick up the pace.

Now going across these dominoes.

He skips the last one, no problem.

That's smart, I reckon,
skipping the last domino.

What's he gonna do on the Anaconda?

No-one has successfully
lached across the Anaconda tonight,

but Ben Polson reckons he can do it.

It's risky but, if you're going
for speed, it's the smart choice.

Oh, look at that! He's done it!

Ben Polson has once again

done what other ninjas cannot do
and he goes again.

He's now overtaken Saxon Johnstone.

Jeez, we've gotta move to keep up
with this guy, he's killing it now.

This is exactly how you do it.

This is the Ben Polson
we know and love.

He is now 25 seconds faster
than Saxon.

At this rate,
he could go under two minutes.

Now for the Ring Chaser.

Grab the ring.

Oh, how's the style?
So cool, right?

So cool.

Alright, he's getting the swing
with two hands?

Can he just do a little Tarzan?

Right, now, the trick here
is to control that backswing.

The ring can easily
slip off the hook.

Ben needs to generate
just enough swing

to make it to the next skyhook,
no more, no less.

And he does it.

Ben employed
an unusual technique there.

Yeah, it's interesting.

He's going for the
double hands on one ring.

That's not the way that
we see a lot of ninjas.

That's how you do it!
That's how you do it.

He knocked it down
and he's up to the wall.

Here he comes, baby, go, go.
Beat that wall!

Oh, yes!
Beat that wall!

Oh, nice!
Smash the buzzer!

Ben Polson lays down the
fastest time of the night

and has sent a message - that, young
whippersnappers, is how you do it.

Ben didn't find his rhythm straight
away but he flew over the dominoes

and, when he reached the Anaconda,
he unleashed his formidable lache.

He did those two obstacles
30 seconds faster than Saxon,

and his time puts him
well in the running

for a spot in the Power Pool.

Wowee.

Benny Polson, I feel so
small and insignificant

next to you, my friend.

Hey, can I just talk a little bit
about this Warped Wall?

'Cause, I mean, this thing's
4.35 metres

and you went up it like you
were going up your front doorstep.

Woody and I have a theory

that you could walk up the wall
and still get your hand on the bar.

Make him show you.
Make him do it right now, do it.

Are you willing to show us that?
Should we make him do it?

Do we think Ben
can walk up the Warped Wall?

Here we go!

(OLIVIA LAUGHS)

We're about to see the first ever
walking Warped Wall.

Ever.

Beat the wall! Beat the wall!
(CHANTING)

(WOODY LAUGHS)

Oh, my god.

Whoo!

Unbelievable! Unbelievable!

Ben Polson, everybody!

Wowee, that is wild.
Yeah.

He just walked up the Warped Wall.

That's one for the history books.

Both Ben and protege Saxon
have made it up the Warped Wall.

And who knows?

They could well be competing
in the Power Pool

if they remain in the top four.

Let's look at the leader board.

Remember, the fastest four
at the end of the night

will fight it out in tonight's
main event, the Power Pool.

Ben's time of 1:55 is quick,
37 seconds quicker than Saxon.

Will they survive at
the top of the table?

On the strength of that performance,
Leila, it's probably safe to say

that, to get to the Power Pool,
not only

do you have to complete the course,
you have to do it with some speed.

Stay with us, Ninja fans.

Next, the Australian Ninja Warrior
Celebrity Challenge.

And here's a sneak peek
of their journey so far.

If you can get your belly up here...

I've learned, with my time
of training with Ninja...

I've got no strength.

..that I'm never, ever
gonna be a ninja.

(GROANS)

It's tough, aye?
It is.

And Josh is superhuman.

That didn't even move.

Oh, my greatest fear is probably
how badly I fall and stack meself.

(GRUNTS)

Or even that I might be a meme.

Man, that's, uh, that's a fair jump.

Because, everything that I do, it
always seems to end up in a meme.

So, with a lache, you want to
rip through with your hands.

Yeah.

A couple of days ago, I didn't even
know the word lache existed.

(HEAVY BREATHING)

This is completely
out of my comfort zone.

I've been training with Eloni,
who is awesome,

so, hopefully, I am up to par.

I'm not too sure if I am
but fingers crossed.

(ELONI LAUGHS)

All good.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Welcome back to
Australian Ninja Warrior.

We have something a little bit
different planned for you,

but it's gonna be tons of fun.

It is the first Australian Ninja
Warrior Celebrity Challenge.

Yeah, we're gonna let
the regular ninjas

just take a break for a minute,

and we're gonna unleash these
celebrities on the course, Leila,

and they're gonna do it for charity.

The winner's gonna get $10,000
to their charity.

Are they crazy? Are they brave?

Should we bring them on?
Let's bring 'em on, shall we?

Alright, here they come.

And there is Jack Vidgin,
singer-songwriter.

We have Olympian, gold medallist
Emily Seebohm.

And there's the legend himself,
the Socceroo Archie Thompson.

Welcome, gang.

And welcome to the coaches,
Eloni Vunakece,

an injured Josh O'Sullivan
and the Zak attack, Zak Stolz.

You guys got some
great, great help there.

Good on you, guys,
for coming out here.

Someone's gonna take home
10,000 for their charity.

We wish you all the best of luck
with this.

You're gonna need it.

Go, Jack, let's get it!
Whoo! Yeah!

Jack, are you ready? It's go time.
Go, Jack.

I'm not sure.

Alright, well,
we're gonna go anyway.

Let's do it.
First up is Jack.

Let's get ready to rumble.

Our celebrities will face
the same punishing course

as our regular ninjas
but, in the spirit of fair play,

we're letting them bypass
one of the hardest obstacles,

the Eagles Claw.

Now, the ninja who goes
furthest on the course

will bank $10,000 for the
charity of their choice.

In the event of a draw, we'll go to
a tiebreaker at the Warped Wall.

(CHEERING)

Yeah!

OK, here we go.

Our first celebrity is
singer-songwriter Jack Vidgin

who's up here.

Jacko, get over here.

Are they children's shorts
or are they adult shorts?

These are adult shorts.
Are they?

We're not sure.
They are. Do you like them?

I do like them, actually,
they do look good.

Alright, boys, stop flirting,
let's get into it, shall we?

Here we go, Jack Vidgin.

Come on, Jack.

Jack's charity is the Trish Multiple
Sclerosis Research Association,

and Jack's dad suffers from MS,

so he's plenty motivated
to win tonight.

Jack Vidgin is off.
He's on the Shrinking Steps.

ELONI: Beautiful, beautiful.

And he hits a high note
straight off the bat.

That is as good a start
as we've seen all night.

Beautiful!

He's happy with that.
Look at him twerking!

Not often seen on Ninja
but we welcome it.

I like his style.

That guy definitely has
got some Ninja talent.

And there's his coach
on the sideline.

Fast.

Jack, start right at the back.

Eloni's just telling him,
give it a full send.

Just let it rip.

Jack Vidgin on the dominoes.

Look at...(GASPS)
What?

Wow, look at Jack go!
What?

And Eloni is loving this.

I did not see that one coming.

But the Anaconda is
going to test him.

Oh, he just couldn't hold on.

That one was a little
bit more predictable.

That is a brutal one for us mortals.
Oh!

Well done, Jack Vidgin.

Look how happy he is.

Well done, Eloni.

That was some nice coaching,

if he could've just let him borrow
a little bit of hang time.

Yeah, plenty of ninjas
struggle on the dominoes.

Big-time.
And Jack Vidgin just flew over them.

That was incredible.

And he didn't even need that
final domino to make it across.

Super impressive and so, too,
his victory twerk.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Jump up here. Turn around,
come here, come here, quick.

Jump up. There we go.

Jack'll be a tough act to follow

but, if anyone can do it,
it's our next celebrity ninja.

Let's bring him out, our Socceroo,

Australian football royalty
Archie Thompson.

Oh, yeah, he got fouled
on the way out.

Aye!

Archie's charity is Team Sport
4 All, an organisation

that helps disadvantaged kids
participate in sport.

Watch your feet, mate, you're good.

You know this one.

Some good words of encouragement
from coach Zak.

Let's go, mate, come on.
Here we go.

Let's see if Archie Thompson's
footwork gets him through.

It certainly got him through
the Shrinking Steps.

Well done, Archie.

And he's even got the twerk moves!

(CHEERING)

Archie Thompson, what a star.

Fast, fast, fast.

Here we go.
That's it!

He's over the dominoes just like
that, and, boy, is he happy.

Another celebrity sending it.

And can he send it a little further
than the others?

If he does, all of that money
goes to his charity of choice.

Alright, what have you got?

You're gonna need
plenty of arm strength.

Come on, Archie.

(GROANS)
Oh!

Archie Thompson don't want
none of that Anaconda.

Awesome.

A mighty fine effort from Archie,

but he came off at exactly
the same spot as Jack.

So, right now, we have a tie

and it all comes down
to our final celebrity.

She's a 3-time gold medallist
and a current Olympian.

It's Emily Seebohm.

Let's go, Em.

Emily Seebohm's charity tonight
is endED,

a support service for people
struggling with eating disorders.

(KLAXON RINGS)

Alright, Shrinking Steps time,
here she goes.

Emily going for gold tonight.

Yeah!
Whoo!

And she's pumped.

No problem.

No twerking but no problem.

Onto the Domino Effect now.
This'll really test her balance.

Real fast?

Go up the middle,
nice and slow, not too fast.

Coach Josh O'Sullivan offering
some tips from the sideline.

That's good advice.

Getting that last-minute coaching.

Here we go, here we go!
She's over!

Our celebrities are incredible!

We might just drop the 'celebrity'

and put 'em right into the
regular Ninja, this is impressive.

This crowd is pumping me up.

My heart is racing.

Hell, yeah, get around 'em!

LEILA: OK, now for the Anaconda.
She could win it right here.

Two hands. Two hands.

JIM: She's getting a little advice
to figure out which hand to start on

and which doorknobs.

So she's gonna start on the second
with the left hand. Good thinking.

And up she goes.
Look at the grip...

(BUZZER)
No! No!

When you see an Olympic gold
medallist struggle on an obstacle,

you really appreciate the skill
it takes to get through this course.

Oh, she's doing a bit of backstroke
in the pool.

In her natural habitat in the water.

What a star!

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

Emily's fallen at the same obstacle
as Jack and Archie,

so we have a three-way tie.

And they're going to the iconic
warped wall for a tie-breaker.

Someone's gotta win this thing,
Leila.

The Warped Wall is a challenge
even for experienced Ninjas,

but are celebrities are ready
to give it a go for their charity.

It's sudden death.

They only get one attempt.

First up, Emily Seebohm.

She's six foot tall,
so she's got the height,

but does she have the technique?

JIM: Alright, here comes Emily.

(CROWD THUMPS AND CHANTS)

Crowd's behind her. Let's see it.

She's off and running!

CROWD: Beat the wall!

No! No!

Not quite!
No! Oh!

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

So we're down to two now.

It's Archie or Jack.

Who'll bring the cash home
for their charity?

Come on, mate! Let's go.

Well, rumour has it that Archie's
done the Warped Wall in training.

Now we're in finesse!

You got it. Watch your feet.

Alright, this is it.

This is the final penalty shot.

It's all or nothing here.

Archie's feeling the pressure
right now.

He wants this money for his charity.

It's all riding on this.

Here he goes!

Drive, Archie! Go, go, go!
Archie!

BOTH: Ooh.
No.

Didn't have the traction, did he?

So it comes down to Jack Vidgen,

and this is his to win now.

And he's doing this for his dad,
so he has plenty of motivation.

Let's go, Jack. You got this!

Just a little reminder -

Jack is not an athlete
and the Warped Wall is 4.35m high.

(CHANTING)

Come on! The crowd's behind him.

He's ready to go.

He's heading for the Wall.
This is it.

(CHEERING)
(LEILA SCREECHES)

Kick it, baby. Come on!

Come on!
Oh no! Jack Vidgen!

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

He's up the wall!
You legend!

(WHOOPS)

And the celebratory twerk.

Faster!

(SIREN BLARES)

(BOTH LAUGH)

(TRIUMPHANT MUSIC)
(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Who would've thought in Ninja world

we'd be getting
a surprise like this tonight.

Incredible stuff from Jack Vidgen.

Jack Vidgen, it is with great honour
that I give to you

the Australian Ninja Warrior
Celebrity Challenge winner!

There you go! Get it on!
(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Get it on, mate!

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Jack, you get $10,000

that goes towards
the Trish MS Research Foundation.

I know your dad has MS, so what does
the money mean for you, mate?

Where's it gonna go?
Oh, it's just, it's...

I don't wanna get emotional.

It just means a lot. My dad has MS

so just raising awareness
and, yeah, it just means the world.

I can't believe it.
Oh, mate!

Congratulations!

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)
(TRIUMPHANT MUSIC)

Well done to our celebrities
and a big congratulations to Jack,

who twerked his way
up the Warped Wall

and won $10,000 for
the Trish MS Research Foundation.

That was incredible.

But don't go away.
We'll catch our breath

and then the Ninjas will be back on
the course right after the break.

Next - one of our fastest Ninjas
of all time

will be bringing
more than speed to the course.

Ashlin Herbert
has a teenage protege.

This is Ash.
This is Ash.

This is Stingray Ninja.
This is Flashlin.

And he's 16.
He is 26.

And tonight
we'll be doing the course.

(CHUCKLES)

It's cute as.

(LAUGHTER)

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Welcome back
to Australian Ninja Warrior,

where some of our teens are learning
the path to Mount Midoriyama is hard.

LEILA: 16-year-old Kai James got a
tough introduction to the course...

Ooh! Whoo!

He shook it off
and flew to the Domino Effect

but it was here this number was up.

No!
Dominoes!

16-year-old Lis Andres
was slow and steady

until she hit the Eagle's Claw,
where she launched...

and splashed down just as quickly.
(BUZZER)

Oh no! No!
No!

17-year-old Troy Sitkowski,
an Australian trampolining rep,

looked good on the Eagle's Claw

but hung around
longer than he needed to.

He's gotta get moving here.

Gotta get those legs out and go.

It didn't cause a problem
on the Domino Effect

but it was a different story
on the Anaconda.

The doorknobs required more grip
strength than he had in the tank.

Oh!

So far, only two Ninjas have made it
to the top of the Warped Wall -

legend Ben Polson...

and 17-year-old Saxon Johnstone.

The attack of the teens!
Yes, baby!

He's up here!
Whoo!

They hold the top two spots
but for how long?

Because we are about to unleash
some of the fastest Ninjas...

on our fastest course.

And the need for speed is real

because what everyone
has their sights set on tonight

is the Power Pool.

The fastest four will battle it out

to win a crucial semifinal
advantage.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

And our next Ninja
knows all about speed.

He's inspired
a generation of young Ninjas

but now, those very same Ninjas
are coming for him.

This guy is the original speedster.

Here he is.
It's Ashlin 'Flashlin' Herbert!

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

I know there's a lot of really good
up-and-comers coming through.

I've done six years
in my Ninja career.

REBECCA: Oh, he flies into the net.

I love the sport. It's a really
great sport to get into.

And if I can inspire them any more,
that's amazing.

I'm stoked to have a little Ash.

I've trained with him a bit

and he's got what it takes to sort
of go the whole way, I think.

I'm not ready to hand over
the Ash name yet.

If he can come up and take it,
then good on him.

But tonight,
I'm sort of feeling a bit... iffy.

We're two days out
from me competing on Ninja

and got some nice grazing.

Recently I came off my skateboard.

Did a bit of damage,
especially with the hands and stuff.

And that's gonna be a bit tough.

So hopefully the course
will go alright tonight.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

LEILA: OK, get ready, Australia,
because here he is!

If you want to know how good
and how fast Ashlin is,

this says it all.

He's won every heat
he's ever competed in

here on Australian Ninja Warrior.

There's Ash Campbell with Ashlin's
good mate, Alex, and partner Sarah.

JIM: Yeah, if Flashlin Ashlin's
to be believed,

he reckons Ash is a legit contender.

Jim, if that's true,

tonight could be the night
Ashlin loses his winning streak.

We're just gonna pull down the
curtain for you guys very quickly

because Ashlin's just stacked off
his skateboard a couple of days ago

and he's ripped
all sort of skin off his body.

I'll see if he can give us a look.

Turn around.
Ash, can we have a look, mate?

(AUDIENCE GASPS)
Have a look at that. Ooh!

His hands took
a little bit of a beating as well.

Might that impact anything
when he gets to the Anaconda

and a kind of a grip issue
would be concerning for him.

(BUZZER)

Alright, start your engines
and start your watches

because this guy is on a flyer.

Flashlin Ashlin,
he doesn't hang around.

Oh, look at that!

God, he just...
He's reckless!

That is classic Flashlin Ashlin.

He earnt that nickname for a reason.

Obstacle three now.

And straight through the Dominoes.

What about this time!

Just 21 seconds
to get to the Anaconda

and this is why he always wins
his heats.

Is he gonna lache?

(CHUCKLES)
Oh, he's definitely lache-ing.

There is no doubt -
he only has one gear.

And look at him fly!

He is crushing this Anaconda

and he is done with it,

and he's 24 seconds faster
than Polson.

He's done it in half the time anyone
else has. This is extraordinary.

His hands
seem to be holding up well,

not slowing him down
in the slightest -

or does anything slow this guy down?

49 seconds gone
and he is on the Ring Chaser.

Racing the ring. Got it.

He had to wait for it!

We've seen Ninjas
just scrambling to get to it.

Ashlin had to wait for it
to get there.

This guy lost half of the skin
on his back. Wow!

But this course
has taken no skin off of him.

He is dominating so far.

Yeah, we talk about a time of 2:15
being fast.

This is supersonic.

He's gonna be hitting that buzzer
in next to no time. Here he comes!

Is he going straight up
the Warped Wall?

Here he comes!
Oh!

(AUDIENCE GROANS)
What are you doing?

Can you believe it?

Well, gonna give it a second try.

Come on!
Here he goes.

He doesn't look that bothered.

There he is.

There he goes.

(BUZZER)
Fastest of the night!

Flashlin Ashlin!

That was amazing.

Two attempts at the Warped Wall

and still 29 seconds faster
than Ben Polson.

Ashlin takes next to no time
on and between obstacles.

He produced a master class
on the Eagle's Claw,

releasing on the first swing.

And then attacked the Anaconda
with the same attitude.

He just doesn't hang around.

We wondered if his streak
would come to an end tonight,

and I think he's answered
that question for us,

because that was spectacular and
surely he's going to the Power Pool.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Even with his injuries,

Flashlin Ashlin made lightning time
of his run tonight,

taking up pole position
for furthest fastest.

The four fastest Ninjas of the night

will be competing in the Power Pool

for an all-important advantage
in the semifinals.

Saxon Johnstone,
the only teen in the mix.

Stay with us, Australia.

There are plenty more Ninjas to run

and any one of them could make it
to the Power Pool.

Including a new sensation
from last season.

David Lack is back.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

LEILA: Welcome back
to Australian Ninja Warrior,

where the teens
have been attacking this course.

They're not having it all their way,
though.

There are a few veteran Ninjas who
can still show them a trick or two.

JIM: Le Hua was
as cool, calm and collected as usual

until the second last Domino.

Oh no!

Ooh, made it! Only just.

But he lached his way across
the Anaconda in style.

Oh, what a catch!
Oh, yeah!

And was happy to see the Warped Wall.

Yeah, he's pumped too.
Yes!

And even happier to hit the buzzer

as he snagged the fourth spot.

James Sayers, AKA 'Twitch',

delivered his usual high-energy run.

He got a little sideways
on the Eagle's Claw, but held on.

He was flawless
over the Domino Effect

and on the Anaconda,
where he lached all the way.

There it is!
Oh!

A salute to the crowd
on the dismount.

Another happy Ninja
to scale the Warped Wall,

beating Le Hua's time by 4 seconds.

(WHOOPS)

And claiming the fourth spot.

Daniel Mason, the 'Barefoot Ninja'

soared through the Eagle's Claw.

He is off to a flyer, Leila!

He dominated the Dominoes.

He's so light. Look at him.

He didn't slow down
for the doorknobs either

and powered his way
right up the Warped Wall.

Yes, baby!
Here we go!

(CHEERING)

Posting the third fastest
run of the night

and rearranging the leader board.

There he is!
The Barefoot Ninja...

There he is!
..is back!

Putting himself in contention
for tonight's ultimate showdown,

the Power Pool.

This is how the top four look
right now.

Teenager Saxon Johnstone
is still in the mix

but it could be a tough spot to hold

with some rising stars
ready to hit this course.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

He got a taste of the grand final
in his debut season last year

and he's back for more.

From Brisbane, it's David Lack.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)
(APPLAUSE)

On the side, his mentor and boss, Le
Hua, Ben Polson and girlfriend Jade.

(CHIMES)

Here we go. We're off and running.

He wants to be in the fastest four
tonight for the Power Pool

as he runs straight onto
the Eagle's Claw.

Oh, great technique
with his legs creating the momentum.

That's nicely done.

Oh, looks like he's going for time.

He is ripping through this course
like he designed it himself.

(CHUCKLES)

Come on, come on.
Excellent.

We're heading for the Domino Effect.

And look at him fly. This is quick!

Moving fast. We're moving fast.

He's not really stopping between
obstacles as he hits the Anaconda.

He's on track for one of
the fastest times of the night.

OK, he's gonna lache,
just as you'd expect.

And look at the hip swing.

That is one powerful athlete.

Oh, the technique!

It just looks so effortless.

The lache is
David Lack's ninja superpower.

Lands it.

48 seconds on the clock.

Just the Ring Chaser to go now

before he gets a crack
at the Warped Wall.

This is a very fast time.

Go, go, go, go!

He's trying to get up
onto the Power Pool.

He is sending a big message.

Ooh!
What a grab!

And crams that thing
right onto the sky hook.

This is some serious business
from a serious Ninja.

He's heading our way.

He's going to the Warped Wall.

Looking at the clock.

He won't beat Ashlin's time -
I doubt anyone will -

but at this rate, it will be
the second fastest time tonight.

The race for the Power Pool
is well and truly on.

Ben Polson's second at the moment
with 1:55.

David is well on track to beat that.

Can he beat the Warped Wall?

Come on, David Lack!

GIRLFRIEND: Up, go, go!
He's got this.

He's got this. He's got it.

Yes!
Ooh!

Oh no!
No!

(GROANS)

It was like 'Cliffhanger'.
Yeah!

He just had it!

LE HUA: Breathe, babe.

AUDIENCE: Beat the wall!
Arm down!

Breathe.
You've got this. Come on.

AUDIENCE: Beat the wall! JIM: OK, he
can still beat Ben's time of 1:55.

LEILA: Here we go.

Here we go. Here we go.

AUDIENCE: Beat the wall!

Tell you what - David Lack
could be in trouble here.

This is his third and final attempt.

If he doesn't get up this time,
it is over

and the Power Pool for David is gone.

Just breathe.
Get the time out of your head.

This is his final attempt.

From one of the fastest
to possibly failing the Warped Wall.

Come on, David Lack.

This is it.
AUDIENCE: Beat the wall!

This is it, up the wall,
up the wall!

Yes!
Yes!

(CHUCKLES)
Oh!

Oh, yes!

LEILA: Slapped that buzzer. Amazing.

David Lack.

He got it.
Got it on the third attempt.

Massive.

Good on him.
Whoa.

It would be devastating
to lose it on the Warped Wall.

I thought he was gone
but he has done it the hard way.

He will be one of the fastest four.

Well, this course promised fast
and boy are our ninjas delivering.

And now it's a real tussle for one
of the four spots in the Power Pool.

JIM: This is how
the leaderboard looks.

David Lack has taken third spot,

knocking teenager Saxon Johnstone

out of the running for tonight's
in game, the Power Pool.

Daniel Mason is still in
with a chance at fourth

but he's at the mercy of the one
ninja left to run.

Word is he's a weapon.

Flashlin Ashlin says
he's the real deal.

Ash Campbell is next.

(CHEERING)

JIM: Sydney Olympic Park, you are
back with Australian Ninja Warrior.

And it's time for our last team
and very last ninja for the heat.

They call him Stingray and he's
tipped to be the one to watch.

Among the new generation
of teenage ninjas,

it's Ash Campbell!

Hi. You're driving.

ASH: I guess I am.

For the last couple of years

my mum's been driving me around
everywhere.

Mainly to take me to training

but I am...

I got my Ls.

Good to go.
Alright, let's go.

And I think now it's her turn.

Just watch your speed.

But she gets very freaked out
with the way I drive.

Mum, I'm on the speed limit.
Don't even stress. It's all good.

So, this Ash knows this Ash

from a couple of competitions
back in Melbourne

where we competed
against each other.

Ash has been
a bit of an inspiration.

Oh, thanks, mate.

No problem.

But I think it's gonna be

a very good opportunity
to just show him what I've got.

Obviously it would be nice
if I get through.

(CHEERING)

You got this, Asho.

You'll be right.

This is Ash Campbell.

He is the Mini Me
to Flashlin Ashlin.

You can tell
just by looking at him.

He's got the hair.
Hopefully he's got the speed.

LEILA: Well, Woody,
if Ashlin is coaching him,

I'm sure speed will be part
of his arsenal.

JIM: And Flashlin right there
ready to give support.

And not only is Ash Campbell chasing
Flashlin's time, if he wants a shot

at the Power Pool tonight he's got
to beat Daniel Mason's run of 2:16.

Ash looks nervous. It's a lot
of pressure for a 16-year-old.

(STARTING BEEP)
OK. We're on.

Ash races across the Shrinking Steps
and no hesitation.

He's straight up
onto the Eagle Claw.

And he's just like Ashlin,
he's fast.

And there's that
stingray-looking lache.

He looks confident.

(CHEERING)
He's out-flashing Flashlin Ashlin.

This is incredible. Look at him go.

Straight over the Domino Effect.

He went over those like hot rocks.

And he's on target
for the Power Pool.

He's three seconds faster
than Daniel Mason.

Will he take the lache route?

Oh, yes he will.

No teen has successfully lached
the Anaconda tonight.

This is the fastest way.

Oh, yes!
(CHEERING)

We're seeing the future.

We've seen
a couple of these youngsters.

This is another one.

Ash is now faster than Daniel Mason
and Ben Polson.

And he's absolutely
hammering this course.

He's barely stopped
to take a breath.

This is fast by any ninja standard
and he's a 16-year-old first timer.

How good would it be to see Ashlin
versus Ash in the Power Pool?

Here we go.

Here would go. Got the ring.

Time to spare on the catch.

He was there so fast he had to wait
for the ring to get to him.

This is gonna be a fast time.

I don't think it'll be
faster than Ashlin

but Ben Polson's 1:55
is about to be smashed.

This is crazy.

Ninja legends, these two.
They're just... are coming for you.

Now can this 16-year-old get up
the 4.35m Warped Wall?

This is huge.

Yes!

(BUZZER BLARES)

(CHEERING)
Attack of the teens.

That was Ash on the smash.

He's 16 years old!

WILL AND WOODY: Wow.

He's coming for Flashlin Ashlin.

Amazing performance.

The Stingray up the Warped Wall.

And that's the second fastest time
of the night.

I mean, that is incredible.

Ash raced through the course
with extraordinary confidence.

Just like his mentor Ashlin,

he chose speed over safety
on the Anaconda.

And look at the style
with the trailing leg.

That's what gives him
the Stingray nickname.

And he attacked this course tonight

heading straight up the Warped Wall
on his first attempt.

What a sensational debut performance
from Ash Campbell.

Stingray, Ash,
congratulations, brother.

Thank you.

Mate, unbelievable stuff there.
How are you feeling, bro?

You absolutely blitzed it.

Oh, feeling very tired.

I actually have no feeling
in my arms.

And other than that
I'm pretty pumped.

Mate, congratulations.
Mate, you're through.

The attack of the teens continues.
How good's this kid?

Ash Campbell has proven

that these teenagers do have what
it takes to tackle the ninja course,

take on our veterans,

and secure their place at the top.

The big question now is can he win
the Power Pool?

We'll find out shortly.

But first, let's confirm who's
made it through to the semi-finals.

Sam Goodall was fast enough
before he fell

and he progresses
along with Robert Ciccarelli.

Quite a few teens also progressing.

Kobe Teede out-gunning
his mum tonight.

And a brilliant performance

from Saxon Johnstone.

But look at this.

There is no substitute
for experience

unless your name is Ash Campbell.

His run knocking Daniel Mason

out of the top four.

And Flashlin Ashlin

remains unbeaten in his heat.

And of course the top four will now

battle it out in the Power Pool
for a game-changing advantage.

Use this advantage wisely and they

are one step closer to the grand
final and Mount Midoriyama.

Our top four ninjas are about
to face off in the Power Pool.

Who do think will win?

Ash Campbell?

Ashlin Herbert?

David Lack?

Or Ben Polson?

Head to nine.com.au/ninjawarrior
and vote right now.

It's all thanks to Energizer.

(CHEERING)

Welcome back to
Australian Ninja Warrior.

It's Power Pool time.

That's right.
The Power Tower is no more.

Now it's all about the Power Pool.

This is the main event
we've all been waiting for,

the ultimate decider.

Ninjas will compete at pace on
obstacles high above the water.

The drop is a backslapping 5m.

It is the biggest fall we've ever
seen on Australian Ninja Warrior.

Here's how tonight's course works.

Ninjas begin with a high-speed foot
race across the Sprinting Steps.

Then it's up a rope
and across to the Static Bar.

The slightest error
on the transfer here will cost time.

And in a head-to-head race
every second counts.

Next up, two huge laches,
with the second a massive 3.1m.

Plus a final five-metre dismount.

Then it's a race up the rope
to the buzzer.

This pool is epic
and so is this showdown.

We've got four amazing ninjas.

The first battle
is gonna be Flashlin Ashlin.

He's gonna take on teen sensation
Ash Campbell.

And then we have David Lack
versus Ben Polson.

The victors of those
two thrilling rounds will then meet

for one final face-off
for the advantage.

OK, Australia,
get set for three explosive races

with tonight's fastest ninjas.

Let's bring out our first
two ninjas, Ashlin and Ash.

It's the Master
versus the Apprentice

and they're battling it out
on the biggest stage imaginable,

the formidable Power Pool.

Flashlin Ashlin holds the Australian

record for the Sprinting Steps

and for the Sonic Shelf Grab

so this course plays
to his strengths.

But 16-year-old

Ash, the 'Stingray' Campbell

is also a speedster

and in a head-to-head race,

anything can happen.

Exactly right, Jim.

Ashlin is lightning fast
but he takes risks.

And he has injured hands
from a skateboarding accident.

BOTH: Here we go.

(STARTER BEEP)

Alright, they're off to
a flying start, going toe to toe.

And there is nothing in it.

Ashlin gets his hand
to the Static Bar first

and to the Shelf Grab.

Ash is not far behind as he makes
a grab for the shelf but oh, no!

He's missed it.

What an upset.

Ashlin Herbert is in the water.

It's not over yet.

Ash still needs to complete
this course to win the race.

If he makes the dismount
he's beaten his mentor.

Yes.
He's done it.

The attack of the teens.

16-year-old Ash Campbell has
taken on a legend and he's won.

I don't think Ashlin can
quite believe what just happened.

It was neck-and-neck across
the Sprinting Steps

and Ashlin leapt higher
onto the rope to grab the lead.

But keep your eyes on his left hand.

He just couldn't hold on
and down he went.

And that cleared the way
for the Stingray

and he flew
through the rest of the course,

cruising to the buzzer,

and into the final round
of the Power Pool.

So, chalk up one to
the new generation of ninjas.

What will happen in round two
of the Power Pool?

It's David Lack up against
ninja legend Ben Polson.

One of last year's new sensations
facing

the man crowned the first and only
Australian Ninja Warrior.

This is a David and Goliath battle

but it's also state against state.

David Lack representing Queensland

and Ben Polson for WA.

Alright, let's see who can execute
this run perfectly

because mistakes will get punished.

Who's it gonna be?
Too tight call, Leila.

We've just seen a ninja legend
take a bath.

(STARTER BEEP)

And they're off. Here they go.

Who gets to the rope first?
That's dead even.

Who's gonna get up to the bar?

Ben Polson made a grab for it
but he missed.

This could be a disaster for Ben.

He's caught up in the rope.

This is big trouble.

Yea. Ben Polson
struggling to untangle himself

as David Lack takes the lead.

Ben's free but he's got
some work to do here.

And David just has to dismount.

He is there.

He has left Ben Polson in his wake.

The second big upset of the night.

This Power Pool punishes
the slightest of errors.

(BUZZER BLARES)

David Lack has beaten the Goliath
of Australian Ninja Warrior

to go into the Power Pool final.

A couple of upsets
here at the Power Pool.

Ah, what a nice moment there.

(CHEERING)

You couldn't split Ben and David

as they raced
across the Sprinting Steps.

But then Ben got his legs
tangled up in the rope

as he tried to transfer
to the Static Bar.

Look at that, David surged ahead,

hitting the buzzer
with time to spare.

Two epic clashes in the Power Pool

have seen Ash Campbell
and David Lack emerge victorious.

But only one of them will win
that precious advantage.

The two favourites knocked out
so it's all on the line.

That crucial advantage
to be used in the semi-finals

could be the difference
between $100,000 and nothing at all.

We are ready to go.

Let's finish this baby off
at the Power Pool.

16-year-old Ash Campbell, second
fastest in the heat tonight.

And he's up against David Lack,
a man who likes his big laches.

Anything could happen here.

(STARTER BEEP)

And they're off
in the attack of the teens.

This is tight.
Ash hitting the rope first.

And he reaches and he misses
the Static Bar.

But Ash is first
onto the Shelf Grab.

The Stingray is about to unleash.

He takes a look over at David.

Knocks down the first lache.

The Stingray is on the precipice
of a major upset.

He's gonna get there.

And David is down.
Heading up the rope.

He's up the rope.
(BUZZER BLARES)

He's hit the buzzer.
(CHEERING)

And Ash Campbell has gained
that precious advantage

here at the Power Pool.

Ash Campbell triumphs here.

(CHEERING)

That was amazing.

A 16-year-old
winning the very first Power Pool.

These young guns
have come out firing.

There was nothing in it
between these two.

Ash had the slightest advantage
on the Shelf, getting away first.

Maybe it was the pressure
and trying to play catch up.

David only got his fingertips
to the Shelf

and then felt the full force
of that 5m drop.

But what a performance from
the 16-year-old Ash Campbell.

He's bagged that incredible
semi-final advantage

in his first Ninja Warrior outing.

Will and Woody are poolside
with him now.

It doesn't get much better than
this. We are here with Ash Campbell.

How are you feeling, mate?

Very tired but also very happy.

A 16-year-old kid has
just knocked out two ninja legends.

Look out, everyone.

Do you have a message to
all the other people

you're taking on
in the competition?

Just watch out for the young guns,
you know. We're coming.

Love it, mate. Great stuff, Ash, eh?

Another round of applause
for Ash Campbell.

Wow, what a performance.

A new ninja star is born.

Ash Campbell triumphing here
at the Power Pool

in an absolutely astonishing coup
against the ninja legends.

Yeah, what a night.

And that's gonna do it for us here
at Sydney Olympic Park

until next time.

We'll have loads more ninja action
for you on Australian Ninja Warrior.

Good night, Australia.
Good night.

The evolution of the world's
toughest obstacle course continues

when teens take on
their older siblings.

He loves thinking he can beat me
in competitions.

Who will win in
a battle of the brothers?

I think I'm the better ninja.

I just don't like to talk myself up.

Yeah. In case he loses.
(LAUGHTER)

Plus last season's breakout stars...

This year I've come back
to tackle the course again.

I'm here to win this time.

..return to the fastest course.

I have my sights set on the grand
finals and know that I can make it.

And attempt to beat Ninja Warrior
royalty...

This year I'm absolutely fired up.

..at their own game.

I am so determined to win.

And this season...

Yes!
Whoo!

..the fastest course ever...

Come on!

..is sent into overdrive.

Oh!

..when head-to-head showdowns
pit ninja against ninja.

(STARTER BEEP)

MAN: The head-to-head race
is often huge.

..in heart-stopping battles...

Oh, my goodness.
No!

..as ninjas eliminate each other...

MAN: I'm stronger than ever

and I'm going all the way
to hit that buzzer.

..in a race to Mount Midoriyama.

MAN: I am so pumped. Game on.

WOMAN: Mount Midoriyama's mine.