Original subtitles

BEN FORDHAM: Last night,...

HOSTS: Oh no!

He's hit it head-first!

..only the strong survived.

FREDDIE: Come on, Eddie! Grit those teeth, son!

Lache off. Yes, Eddie! (CHEERING)

And power couple Ben Polson

and Olivia Vivian

went head to head on the Power Tower.

Chivalry's dead in Australia, ladies and gentlemen.

SHANE CRAWFORD: Here comes Olivia, making a run!

Will she get him, right towards the buzzer?

Oh! He's got it!

Ben Polson gets there.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

Tonight,...

The mo's back for season four,

and this time I've got my eyes set on the Power Tower.

..Rebecca Maddern returns...

Pump, pump, pump, pump, pump! Yes!

..in time to see...

I'm feeling better than I have ever before.

..'Ninja' royalty...

(ROARS)

..taking on a brand-new breed,...

I've trained for moments like this. I'm focused and ready to go.

..including the fast,

the inspirational...

It was, really, ten days of immense pain and suffering

for a really beautiful goal.

..and the unusual.

His brain is half, my brain is half,

and, together, it's one whole. Whole brain.

Another 'Ninja versus Ninja' battle...

I don't care about any other ninja.

I've gotta beat Matt. That's what it all comes down to.

..awaits on the almighty Power Tower

as we continue the search

for Australia's first Ninja Warrior.

(CHEERING)

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

Well, what a start to this season of 'Australian Ninja Warrior'.

We've got so many phenomenal ninjas from all walks of life,

but they're all ordinary people doing the extraordinary.

Some amazing comebacks so far as well.

And speaking of comebacks, welcome back, Rebecca Maddern. How are you?

I'm very well. I reckon I could run the course. I feel so fit.

(CHUCKLES)

Shane Crawford did a great job filling in,

but it's great to have you back.

You've had a look at the course... Not too good?

Not too good. Not too good. Thanks, Shane.

You've had a look at the course. What do you think?

I think this is so hard.

I mean, this heat looks like a semi-final to me,

so I don't know what's gonna happen tonight.

Let's have a look. Tonight is the third of four heats,

with only the top 16 ninjas

from each heat progressing to two semi-finals.

Six obstacles stand between our ninjas and the semis.

The Quintuple Steps is first - five steps, 1.5m apart.

Ninjas don't have to use all the steps,

but they must not touch the water.

The Butterfly Wall to Zipline is next,

for the first time in 2020.

Ninjas must bounce from the mini tramp on to the spinning butterfly,

then time a 2m leap on to the zipline and swing to safety.

The Bridge of Blades is obstacle number three.

Using only their feet, ninjas must race across four spinning blades.

Making its first appearance this year,

the formidable Bar Hop is fourth -

previously a nemesis for some of our best ninjas.

Two 1.6m laches from one cradle to the next

stand in their way, with only a fixed central bar to help.

Obstacle five is the Flying Shelf Grab -

a daunting test of swing and grip strength.

Ninjas must lache across three shelves of alternating height,

with each shelf only wide enough to allow fingertip grip.

The sixth and final obstacle is the iconic Warped Wall.

Ninjas have three attempts to conquer the 4.25m curved wall

and hit the buzzer to complete the course.

(BUZZER BLARES)

FREDDIE: And don't forget, new to 'Australian Ninja Warrior' in 2020

is the most challenging obstacle of them all - the Power Tower.

And our two fastest ninjas will go head to head

right here at the end of the night.

And, Freddie, the winner of the Power Tower

takes a game-changing time advantage into the semi-finals.

Now, that advantage could make all the difference,

because our grand final winner this season

walks away with 100,000 bucks. That is just for starters, Ben.

If a ninja can conquer Mount Midoriyama,

they'll be crowned Australia's first Ninja Warrior

and win a massive - wait for it, wait for it - $400,000.

I'm glad I waited for it.

OK, it's green for go for the night's first ninja.

And first to tackle our ninja course is one of the few competitors

to have appeared in every series of 'Australian Ninja Warrior'.

He's a past grand finalist who just seems to get stronger every time.

It's the Bigg Ninja, Alex Bigg.

(CHEERING)

ALEX BIGG: Last year, I was still in the Air Force.

I was working over in Canberra,

at the Australian Command and Staff college.

Soon after arriving there, I got a job from Boeing Defence Australia,

so, instead of fixing planes, I started fixing flight simulators.

Let's go for a fly.

So, I picked simulators for a 737.

Every day, I get to take one up, go flying around.

Fly from Edinburgh to Adelaide.

It's an amazing job.

Sweet as. (CHUCKLES)

'Ninja', for me, has been pretty up and down.

So, season one, I fell off on the second obstacle.

Oh no! Oh no! Oh no!

Last season was awesome. I made it up the Mega Wall.

Here he goes. I'm gonna back him in. Here he goes.

Leaning over. Alex Bigg.

Up he goes. Straight up! Yes!

Goes up the Mega Wall! $5,000!

Ready?

Steady?

Next one.

Arlo is 2 years, ten months.

At the moment, he's learning laches,

and he's learning candlesticks.

In his a ninja gym, he's got his rock-climbing wall.

You gonna beat the wall? Yeah.

Whoa!

(BUZZER BEEPS)

He's right into his rings. He loves spinning.

He is incredible - dead hangs almost two minutes.

He's a terror at the playgrounds.

You take him out there, and he just dominates.

I'm not competitive at all.

I'm not one of those parents who goes,

"Yeah, go do the sports that I love."

Is Dada gonna be the first Australian Ninja Warrior?

Yes. There you go.

I'm gonna be the first Australian Ninja Warrior,

because he said so.

(CHEERING)

Will baby ninja Arlo's prediction come true? He's here to find out.

Arlo's mum, Amy, on the sideline as well.

Come on, Alex. CROWD CHANTS: Bigg Ninja!

Bigg Ninja! Bigg Ninja!

FREDDIE: This lad is a real competitor.

This lad is got a real chance.

The old Notorious...

Every step he takes, every move he makes,

we'll be watching you.

The Notorious Alex B-I-G-G

is about to take to the course.

He knows it inside out. It does not help with the nerves, though.

Still get nervous on the start line. (BEEPING)

Alright, the fireworks and the buzzer.

That means we are on for season four for Alex Bigg.

Making a cautious start on the Quintuple Steps.

(CHEERING)

But he's through, and he goes straight for the mini tramp.

He hits it and sticks it.

Right on the Butterfly Wall.

Misses the chance to get on to the zipline; has to go around again.

Keep going. Push it round.

It'll come around on its own now. Don't force it, son. Don't force it.

(CHEERING)

Here it comes.

It's a 2m jump on to the zipline. Yes!

Great work, Alex Bigg.

(CHEERING)

That's two down now, and Arlo's happy.

But we're already beginning to see how tough this course is.

Now, he is heavy, so this Bridge of Blades is gonna test him.

Here he goes. They move quickly. Ooh, he was clipped by the last one.

He's through.

Ooh, just about making it.

Big relief.

Now he's on the Bar Hop.

There's about 1.6m between each ledge.

Let's see how he goes on the first.

No problem. Picture-perfect.

Now, he just needs to get into the centre one,

and then he can have a bit of a regroup,

'cause this is a stable bar.

Plenty of upper-body strength. Don't you worry about that.

Needs to land the next one, and he's almost home.

He's gotta drag that bar across to the next ledge - 1.6m.

Oh! Oh no, Alex!

Oh, the Bigg Ninja bombs out on the Bar Hop.

He's not happy with that - you know why?

He made it. He landed it.

Just have a look here.

The previous laches were good.

Hips driving nice and high, bringing the upper body through with the bar.

But after he landed the final lache,

I think Alex thought he was home,

and he just released the bar too early.

Centimetres short.

Oh, look at poor little Arlo.

Oh no, Arlo, darling.

Aw, don't worry. Daddy could still make the semi-finals.

Alex, disappointing there, mate. You thought you had it?

Yeah, pretty dirty, mate.

I was tossing up, the whole time, whether to go alternate grip or not.

Ah, yeah, it was my undoing.

Well, it's great to see ya. Ladies and gentlemen,

Alex Bigg! (CHEERING)

That's a warning to all our ninjas.

Alex is a former grand finalist,

but, tonight, he might just struggle to qualify for the semis.

We didn't get to do the wall.

Let's see if our second ninja can cut through the course.

She's a mother of three young daughters

who likes to work out in the playground

while the girls are having fun.

Here is Dee Thompson.

Dee is a first-time ninja and hairdresser,

and she has brought her three girls

and her husband, Daniel, for support,

as well as her boss tonight, and some of her best clients.

So, if I get through,

I'll be Australia's... BOTH: ..Ninja Warrior.

I'm Dee. I'm 29.

I'm from Melbourne. I'm a hairdresser, and I'm also a mum.

When you become famous, you remember...

(CHUCKLES) ..I started here. "I started..." It all started here.

I love my boss, Jo. She took me on when I was 15, and,

like, all I ever wanted to be was a hairdresser,

and she made that happen. It doesn't really feel

like a job. Like, I get to come and talk to people

and hear about their lives, and...

..it's amazing.

Yay, Mum!

I became a mum at 19,

and I've got three girls, and...

..I'm a very busy, active mum.

You holding on?

I remember watching season one and thinking, "This is amazing.

"I would love to be able to move and be strong, like they are."

I just knew that I was going to make it a goal,

and I was gonna train hard.

(CHEERING)

I wanted to have this opportunity to come on the show.

My kids are amazing. They support me,

and I want them to say, "Mum can do anything."

Even if you've got three kids and you work hard, you can...

..you can do anything.

ALL: Go, Mum! We love you!

(ALL CHEER)

BEN: Billie, Frankie and Mila -

the three gorgeous little girls on the sideline, cheering on Dee.

And she really feels like she wants to do something special

for her girls here tonight.

(ALL CHEER) Let's hope she can pull it off.

(BEEPING) Ding!

Come on, Dee Thompson!

Doing it for her three girls on the sideline tonight,

and I love a woman who doesn't waste a moment of her day.

While her girls are playing in the park, she works out.

Just 50kg of her,

so this next obstacle will provide a challenge for her,

because the lighter you are, the harder it is

to get enough bounce to find that Butterfly Wall.

FREDDIE: You need to attack that trampoline.

Take a run-up and hit that trampoline hard.

Get the height.

Get the distance. Oh! What a hit!

A head-on collision with the Butterfly Wall.

In the water she goes.

(CHEERING)

A big effort.

Her support crew a little disappointed,

but this is a difficult course.

Her tramp technique was the problem. Ideally, you'd be hitting the centre

of the tramp with both feet at the same time.

Dee was just a little too far forward.

The right foot almost came off,

and she didn't get enough upwards momentum...

..and slammed into that wall.

(ALL CHEER)

An unlucky end to heat three for Dee,

but I'm sure she'll be back next year

after brushing up on her tramp technique.

MAN: Aussie, Aussie! CROWD: Oi, oi, oi!

But now it's time for one of the most popular competitors

here on 'Australian Ninja Warrior'.

So, Ben, since we met him last time, our next ninja

has become an ambassador

for Tourette Syndrome Association of Australia.

It is Twitch Ninja James Sayers.

(ALL CHEER)

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

FREDDIE: Oh, here we go! It's James Sayers.

Twitch Ninja. I really like this lad.

Made it to the semis last time around.

I would love to see him make the grand finals and beyond.

(HARD ROCK BEAT PLAYS)

My name's James Sayers,

known as Ninja Twitch.

Twitch Ninja. Yes! Yes!

Wants to get his hand on that buzzer.

After 'Ninja' season three, I was asked

to be the ambassador for Tourette's Australia.

SYLVIA JEFFREYS: James,

a very good morning to you. Morning, guys.

Pretty much a walking, talking advertisement for Tourette's.

Tell the viewers what it was like growing up with Tourette's.

The hardest thing, growing up, was obviously dealing with bullies.

I obviously can't relate to what the parents are going through,

because I was never a parent with a child,

but I know exactly how the kids are feeling.

Someone is always gonna target something different about someone.

This year, I'm flying to every state

to be at every Tourette's camp.

They're gonna take my place in about five years.

(CHILDREN CHEER)

I just love showing these kids that Tourette's is just a quirk.

James is a great bloke.

He's got Tourette's,

and he keeps working hard to do the thing he loves.

I wanna be like him.

Go, Twitch!

Twitch is gonna win!

Go, Twitch!

BOTH: Go, Twitch!

Go, Twitch!

It's amazing that I can be a role model for them

and show them that Tourette's is not gonna stop them

from doing what they want to achieve.

(INSPIRATIONAL MUSIC)

(CHEERING)

REBECCA: James Sayers has a big fan club.

He's been here before, and we are expecting

big things tonight.

ALL CHANT: Twitch! Twitch! Twitch! Twitch!

BEN: On the sidelines, his biggest fan, Izzy.

And there's James' mum, and best mate, Mickey.

FREDDIE: Everyone rooting for this lad - everyone in the audience.

I'm sure, everybody at home as well.

Real popular lad. (BEEPING)

And we're off. James Sayers, two-time semi-finalist -

could he go all the way this year?

Go on, James.

Now coming up to the Butterfly Wall.

Bouncing on the trampoline.

Whoa! Look at the height on that lad!

He's on to the zipline already, and off the zipline,

in the blink of an eye. Now Bridge of Blades.

He does it... Oh!

Oh, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa! Oh!

(CHEERING)

He's up and playing to the crowd. That was an early scare.

Give me a heart attack.

Give me a heart attack, James!

He loves feeding off the crowd.

And he shakes out the hands now,

has a laugh with everyone watching on.

But this is no joke, this obstacle.

This is the Bar Hop.

1.6m between the bars.

Makes the first hop, and he is looking good.

Now on to the fixed bar in the middle.

Lining himself up for the next one.

You got this!

Oh, look at that - nice technique.

Just grabbing it.

One hand under, one hand over. One more, James. Come on.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Get across. Yes, James Sayers! Yes, he does it.

He sticks it.

(CHEERING) He's down!

And James Sayers is the first ninja past the Bar Hop.

(CHUCKLES) He is happy with that,

and so he should be, on this incredibly tough course.

It's only gonna get tougher here.

The Flying Shelf Grab - the second-last obstacle.

And he loves the energy of this crowd.

Here he goes - on the monkey bars at the moment.

He's gotta hit that first shelf. He's got it.

(CHEERING)

Vice-like grip on the first shelf.

Now getting them legs moving. Lache-ing on to the second.

Yes, James! Come on, James.

Little bit of trouble with his grip there,

but one more shelf, and it's on to the Warped Wall.

Come on, James. The crowd is behind you. Makes the...

Oh! But he's in the pool!

Sayers!

Does not get his opportunity at the Warped Wall.

And he was so close but hits the water on the penultimate obstacle.

Yeah, that's a big surprise. Let's see the replay.

The body position on the lache is good - nice and high;

the upper body following behind.

Almost in a sitting position.

But as the body weight comes down,

his grip just failed him.

So close, Freddie!

Tell you what, James. You're a crowd favourite tonight, aren't ya?

(CHEERING) I hope so.

(CHEERING) Whoo-hoo!

Looking at ya, you could not be happier. You look so happy.

Oh... Oh, yeah, man. Mental state through the roof.

And then, on the course tonight - ever so close on the Flying Shelf.

Just the last one, just losing your grip.

Yeah, I... I stubbed my finger on it.

You know, I feel I... I was happy with the way my run went.

I tell you what, James Sayers,

absolute star! Ladies and gentlemen, big round of applause for James!

Great to see you, mate. Well done.

Thanks, mate. Thanks.

Yeah, it was a great effort from James.

He's gone the furthest so far

and will keep inspiring the next generation of ninjas,...

Number one fan. ..just like little Izzy there.

The Twitch Ninja, setting the standard so far.

But we've got some big names still to come.

Coming up tonight, three-time grand finalists and ninja royalty

Sam Goodall and Alex Matthews take on our toughest course yet.

I'm feeling better than I have ever before.

You'll be seeing me up at the top of the Warped Wall.

First-time ninja Jesse Appleby feels the need for speed.

Just because I'm a girl, doesn't mean the guys can keep up with me.

And Twinjas Matt and Luke Filippi return

to battle it out in a case of sibling rivalry.

I don't care about any other ninja.

I've gotta beat Matt. That's what it all comes down to.

And one of the most inspirational stories of mateship and achievement.

MATT LAYCOCK: Ten days of immense pain

and suffering for a really beautiful goal.

New ninja Matt Laycock, aiming to scale the heights tonight.

(CHEERING)

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

REBECCA: Welcome back to 'Australian Ninja Warrior',

where our ninjas are battling it out for a top-16 finish

and a guaranteed ticket to the semi-finals.

BEN: And later, the top two will head to the Power Tower,

where, this year, for the first time,

it's ninja versus ninja for a potentially decisive time advantage.

(CHEERING)

That's definitely on the radar for our next competitor.

He is one of our most recognisable ninjas -

the man with the mo to make Super Mario jealous.

All the way from WA, it's Alex 'The Mo' Matthews.

(CHEERING)

FREDDIE: As always when Alex 'The Mo' Matthews is on the course,

my mo goes on as well. From Western Australia,

firefighter, and a big contender.

Grand finalist in all three seasons.

Is this the year he goes even further?

And Alex has never hit the water in the heats - an incredible record.

(BEEPING)

He'll be desperate to keep that record going tonight.

And he's off and racing.

No hesitation at all through the Quintuple Steps.

(CHEERING)

Straight away, on to the Butterfly Wall.

Bit of a thump, and he'll get straight off,

because he knows there's no point in wasting any time.

And he's absolutely flying through the Bridge of Blades.

As always, Alex 'The Mo' Matthews - hectic.

It's never a pretty run, but it's always effective.

Three obstacles down in under 30 seconds, Freddie.

He's turning it on. He wants a place on the Power Tower.

Can he get it?

He's got everything. He's got the great power-to-weight ratio.

He's not that tall. He's not that heavy.

He's a perfect ninja warrior.

(CHEERING)

It's been 12 months or more

since he's taken on a 'Ninja Warrior' course,

but it looks like he's back home.

(CHEERING)

One more bar to grab.

There we go. Needs to put a time in

if he's got any chance of making it up to the Power Tower.

One minute gone. Alex is about to complete obstacle four.

1.6m. He's gotta move,

and he gets it! Oh! Just hangs on.

That was a close shave for Alex,

but he is through the Bar Hop.

(SHOUTS)

And now the Flying Shelf Grab.

Now, this is the difficult thing -

these two obstacles lined up together,

because they both draw on your upper-body strength,

and we haven't given them a break.

Not our idea of fun at all!

This next shelf is 20cm higher than the first one,

so you've really gotta kick yourself up.

BOTH: Oh!

Alex Matthews hits the water with just the Warped Wall to come.

He was looking good to hit the buzzer,

but one mistake is all it takes,

and one of the top, top ninjas from previous years is in the water.

Alex, always good to see ya. I had you down

for getting to the top of the Warped Wall.

Yeah, I'm... I was quite surprised there, mate.

You? Yeah, very. I was...

It was only a matter of time, wasn't it? Three seasons -

I had to take a swim sometime in the heats. So tonight was the night.

We've got a replay on the screen, here, Al,

if you wanna just talk us through what happened.

As soon as I got on to the first lache, I knew my grip was,

for some reason, dwindling, and...

Just didn't commit, you know? Ah, pathetic.

(LAUGHS) Well, you...

Oh, it's all good.

You said it. Ladies and gentlemen, Alex 'The Mo' Matthews!

(CHEERING)

A shock exit for the three-time grand finalist.

He may have done enough for the semi-finals,

but further proof that this course is a huge challenge tonight.

(CHEERING)

Our next ninja enjoys a unique relationship with his best mate,

who's also competing tonight. This is Jarryd Sutton.

Let's go! Let's go!

(BOTH GRUNT)

This is so awkward.

(BOTH LAUGH)

Hi. I'm Jarryd.

And I'm Will.

And we're gonna be really good on 'Ninja Warrior'.

Because we're good ninjas. And strong.

And independent.

This is going downhill real quick. (BOTH LAUGH)

# His name's Jarryd (BEATBOXES)

# And my name's Will

# If you're feeling down We'll help you chill

# Let's go, baby

# We're going crazy. #

We've been friends for 16 years.

I'm Jarryd. I'm Will.

I'm 11. He's 12.

(BOTH SHOUT)

It feels really great to be the winner of all rounds.

Yeah, pretty much just roll it from there.

It's just really easy to beat him.

We can have a conversation across the room without saying

a single word.

His brain is half, my brain is half, and together it's one whole.

Whole brain.

Go harder! You can do it!

(GRUNTS) Keep going! You're almost there!

Six! Go harder!

One day, I was, like, "Hey, Will, let's go on 'Ninja Warrior'."

We've done all of our training together.

It pushes us, makes us better.

We do obstacles together.

We just both wanna win.

It means so much.

1% of the time, we actually think about what we're doing.

And when we're trying to think smart,

we just put our heads together, and whoever's head wins,

like... Yeah.

Like this.

No! Yeah!

(CHEERING)

Jarryd Sutton, from South Australia,

taking to the 'Ninja Warrior' course for the first time.

He's come with his mate, Will Kelly,

and these two, I'll tell you, are quite the double act.

(CHEERING)

(BEEPING)

OK, don't be fooled - these two guys mean business tonight.

Nice jump!

And look at Jarryd. He's got a great physique for 'Ninja Warrior' -

74 kilos, 178cm tall -

and he's looking comfortable on the Quintuple Steps.

(CHEERING)

But the Butterfly Wall is a different prospect.

That's a good bounce.

And now straight on to the rope.

FREDDIE: Straight across. He's not hanging around.

A great start from Jarryd, Freddie.

Two obstacles down in around 20 seconds.

Here he goes. Jarryd Sutton!

Big leap at the end. This is a hectic run.

He is giving this a decent crack.

Isn't he? He's surprised a few people,

and now he finds himself at the Bar Hop.

We already know how tough this one can be, Rebecca Maddern.

We certainly do, but Jarryd has been so impressive up to now.

His confidence is soaring.

OK, grabs the first bar.

This obstacle, it's all about technique.

(CROWD CHANTS) Can he do it?

Here's the lache now,

on to the second of the hooks.

Get them legs going. Keep 'em moving.

There he goes. Oh!

Oh no!

Jarryd's gone.

Just when we were starting to think he could go all the way,

the Bar Hop strikes back.

A great effort, and that has

put some pressure on his best mate, Will.

Jarryd, it was going all so well. What happened?

Oh, you know,

just came in pretty hot,

landed, fully extended - not much to absorb there. You know,

bit of a bummer, but just...

..didn't stick it.

And you've got your mate with you, Will. Any advice for him?

Don't do what I did. Go over that way -

all the way. Just don't fall off, right?

No water.

Well, fingers crossed you'll make it through to the semi-finals,

seeing how everyone else does.

Ladies and gentlemen, big round of applause for Jarryd Sutton!

(CHEERING) Well done, mate.

A great performance from Jarryd.

It might be enough to take him through into the semi-finals,

but will it be enough to beat his best mate, Will?

We'll find out soon.

Later tonight,

returning rev-head Loki Kuroi -

can she drift her way into the semi-finals?

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

But, next, Richmond Football Club's Sarah Wyllie.

I've trained for moments like this. I'm focused and ready to go.

This first-time ninja

is out to inspire her team from the 'Ninja' course.

And season-three grand finalist,

the first half of the Surfing Twinjas, Matt Filippi -

will he remain the strongest ninja twin?

I'm confident. He's cocky.

(CHEERING)

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

BEN: We're back and deep into the action

in our exciting heats of 'Australian Ninja Warrior 2020'.

At stake tonight - qualification to the semi-finals for the top 16,

and for the two fastest ninjas of the night,

a head-to-head race on the Power Tower.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

Who's up next, Bec? REBECCA: Our next runner tonight

works as an AFLW player development and well-being manager.

Please welcome first-time ninja Sarah Wyllie!

(CHEERING)

Oh, and I like when you bring some props

on to the set of 'Australian Ninja Warrior'.

She's got the football in her hand.

FREDDIE: A development coach with the AFL.

Wondered what that ball was.

You ready for this, Freddie?

Yeah, go on. I'll have it. Come on, then.

Freddie won't know what this thing is.

(CHEERING)

There we go. Nice work, Freddie!

Aussie Rules football - a daft game, actually. You hit it, don't ya?

When I was younger, it was a dream to play AFL,

and I was repeatedly told that girls don't play football.

That has driven me, throughout my life, to achieve amazing things.

Now, with AFLW, I get to be a part of this amazing sport.

My name is Sarah Wyllie.

I'm the player development manager for the AFL women's program

at the Richmond Football Club.

(UPLIFTING MUSIC)

My role is to help support the girls, off the field,

to be the best that they possibly can on the field.

I am so passionate about women in sport,

and I love working with these young, amazing women.

I think I have the best job in the world. Every day,

I'm telling these young girls

that they can do anything that they set their mind to.

And, tonight, I'm gonna be channelling all their amazing energy

to get up that wall and press that buzzer and conquer the course.

I'm never gonna be told what girls can and can't do, ever again.

(CHEERING)

There's Sarah's husband, Gordy,

and she's got a big cheer squad in here tonight.

She's known as Wyllie Coyote,

but, tonight, she'll wanna move like the Road Runner.

Not only is she involved in AFLW,

she's also been an ambulance paramedic and also a nurse,

so qualifications aplenty.

The Quintuple Steps,... Come on!

..no problem for the 41-year-old.

She looks strong. (CHEERING)

Yes! She's happy with that,

and the cheer squad's happy too. One down for Sarah.

FREDDIE: And, then, now it's a trampoline

to Butterfly Wall to zip wire. Just checkin' out the trampoline.

She's gotta really jet into this trampoline and hit it hard

if she's gonna have enough momentum to get to the Butterfly Wall.

She's done it! Nice leap. Gotta hang on, though.

She's done it! She's gotta get off, gotta get off,

gotta get off, gotta get off! Sarah Wyllie, that is fantastic!

(CHEERING) And the crowd reacts

like she's kicked a grand final goal.

(CHEERING)

The Bridge of Blades.

I don't know whose heart is racing more - the competitor,

or the family and friends, or your heart at home.

Look at the determination on her face.

Here she goes. One, two, three, four!

(CHEERING)

It's been a rough fight, but somehow, Sarah Wyllie...

Come on, Sarah!

..is at the Bar Hop and on the rope.

Wow.

She has done extraordinarily well to get to the Bar Hop.

Let's see how she goes. Mixed grip. This is a big transition -

1.6m. Drag that bar, then land it in the latch.

(CHEERING)

Oh, yes!

(CHEERING)

Do it again for us, Sarah.

Yes! Oh, yes!

And one more time.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Here she goes.

Oh! Oh no!

She's down.

And Sarah Wyllie's gutsy effort comes to an end on the Bar Hop.

The siren sounds on Sarah's run,

but not before she showed us plenty of grit and determination.

Unfortunately, on the last Bar Hop, she drove her hips up high,

but brought her upper body through a beat too slow.

She hurried the grab at the bar,

and with the overhand grip, she just couldn't hang on.

Her body was destined for the water.

Sarah, well... Oh, sorry. I made you jump, then, didn't I?

There's a towel. There's... You can have your ball back as well.

Oh, good catch, by the way. Thank you very much.

That was an entertaining run - especially on the Butterfly Wall.

What were the tactics on that?

Oh, just give it my all and just go and have some fun, and...

..I just attacked it and jumped, and... I had all the footy girls

and my family and supporters behind me and...

(ALL CHEER) ..egging me on, and...

I love helping inspire and empower young women all over the country.

And hopefully, tonight, I'll get us over the line, girls! (CHUCKLES)

It won't be just the women. It'll be the men as well.

That was a great run. Congratulations, Sarah.

Ladies and gentlemen, a big round of applause!

Well done, Sarah Wyllie.

Doing the AFLW proud.

But will it be enough for a spot in the top 16 and the semi-finals?

We'll find out later.

Making his way to the course now,

one of the Surfing Twinjas.

Semi-finalist in season two, grand finalist season three.

He's ready to go all the way.

Here is Matt Filippi.

(SURF ROCK MUSIC)

I'm one of the Surfing Twinjas.

I'm 34 years old. I'm from the Sunshine Coast.

What's he got?

I don't reckon he'll get it.

Easy!

Nah, that was an easy run, mate.

Have to do better than that.

Luke and I are really competitive.

It could be, even, a little race just down the hallway,

or who can eat first, quicker or whatever.

I think being judged, being twins, our whole life,

just gives us that edge to see who's better.

Get away, mate. Come on. Have you done it yet?

Get up there.

Our preparation this year - we've upped it a lot since last year.

We've started rock climbing as well,

and we've been upping our training at Pa Rambo's house.

(BOTH LAUGH)

He makes all the obstacles

and tells us how they work and how to do 'em, and...

..I wouldn't be the ninja I am today without Pa Rambo.

(ROCK MUSIC)

Season three, I beat Luke twice, so it wasn't a fluke.

FREDDIE: Presses the buzzer! (BUZZER BLARES)

And isn't he happy? He is through to the grand final!

HOSTS: Matt Filippi!

If my brother Luke and I made the Power Tower,

I think that would be amazing.

He would have to, obviously,

qualify second, 'cause I'll beat him in the heats,

and then I'll beat him on the Power Tower as well. (CHUCKLES)

(CHEERING)

And these boys are popular - the Surfing Twinjas.

And on the sideline, twin Luke,...

Like this. ..with Matt's daughter Zarlie.

Come on, Matty! Luke will be on the course later.

Pa Rambo, a 'Ninja Warrior' favourite, has been a mentor

and training buddy of the Filippi brothers.

He's watching on right now from home.

Ah, there he is, Pa Rambo!

Come on, Matt! We miss you, Pa Rambo.

It's a shame that Pa Rambo can't compete tonight.

His wife was unable to travel,

and he wanted to stay by her side.

Let's see if Matt can do him proud. (BEEPING)

We're on. (CHEERING)

FREDDIE: Here he is, taking to the course now.

LUKE: Easy, Matt. Easy.

Just dancing, shimmying his way through the Quintuple Steps.

Now hits the trampoline,

straight on to the Butterfly Wall. Look at the height!

Grips it, sticks it, jumps off it -

so quick. Nice, Matty!

Right now he's on the Bridge of Blades.

HOSTS: Oh!

A little misstep, but he recovered nicely,

and on to the Bar Hop now.

We've already seen this obstacle causing problems,

but Matt has the upper-body strength and experience to make it through.

He's made it to the fixed bar in the middle.

He needs to move to the next bar - a little hop.

He's there.

Getting that grip sorted. PA RAMBO: Keep going, boy!

Now he's gotta go to the last cradle.

Yes!

And he's down. (CHEERING)

And that was pretty to watch from Matt Filippi.

Beauty!

Two obstacles to go, and we could be looking at

the first ninja to climb the Warped Wall.

But I think this next obstacle is the biggest challenge on the course.

So far tonight, no-one's got past the Flying Shelf Grab.

Will he be the first?

Matt Filippi. He's starting to get a swing on.

Look at the flexibility in his body.

This is where James Sayers and Alex Matthews both came unstuck.

Oh, fingers crossed! But he hangs on to it!

Wonderful stuff from Matt.

One more swing,... Yes!

..and he goes further than anyone else.

Hit that buzzer!

Doesn't even stop at the Warped Wall.

Straight up the Warped Wall.

There you go, Matt Filippi! Yes, Matt Filippi!

You beauty!

(CHEERING)

It is nice to have you back on 'Australian Ninja Warrior'.

Yes, mate! Easy!

Pa Rambo's happy.

That was just a masterclass - almost the perfect run.

Speed, skill and determination through every obstacle.

Up the wall to hit that buzzer,

and he's in the box seat for the Power Tower later tonight.

Matt Filippi, a real contender in season four.

(CHEERING)

Matt, I tell you what - looking stronger than ever this year.

Yeah, thanks, mate. Really been training hard the last year,

and I think it paid off. I felt good then.

How is the course this time around? Was it tougher than last year?

Yeah, it's a lot more forearm grip, especially the last two obstacles.

But you just gotta grip hard and give it all you got.

And that was a fast time.

Have you got one eye on having a go on the Power Tower?

Oh, mate, I'd love that, but it wasn't my priority tonight.

Priority was just hitting that buzzer.

And if I get that, it's a bonus.

Well, you're hopefully gonna be on the Power Tower.

Through to the semi-finals. Wait and see how you get on.

But congratulations. Ladies and gentlemen, Matt Filippi!

(CHEERING) Yes!

(LAUGHS) Pa Rambo,

all smiles after that brilliant performance by Matt Filippi.

Head and shoulders above anyone else we've seen so far,

and it's gonna take something very special to beat him tonight.

Plenty more action to come right after this.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

When we return, one of our most inspirational ninjas,

amputee and Invictus Games star Mark Daniels, is back.

I'm here to do it for everyone with a disability living in Australia.

Then, his best mate Jarryd set the standard -

can Will Kelly beat the Bar Hop and go further?

And still to come, it's green for go

for the Superbike Ninja Jesse Appleby.

(CHEERING)

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

BEN: Welcome back to heat three of 'Australian Ninja Warrior'.

The race is on to make the semi-finals,

while the two fastest ninjas

will go head to head on the Power Tower for a crucial time advantage.

During the break, three more ninjas tried their luck.

First-time challenger Harry Cole,

the Lumberjack Ninja,

flew high and fast.

REBECCA: Oh, what a leap!

I'm gonna call it early - he's gonna go to the Warped Wall.

But this tough arborist copped the chop on the Bar Hop.

He's got to stick this one.

Oh! Oh no!

Oh no! He's into the pool. Harry!

Sydney plumber Nic Manning and his magnificent moustache

pulled off an amazing escape.

Oh, yes! Oh, he's made the leap!

That's one of the ultimate saves!

But his hopes went down the drain on the Flying Shelf Grab.

Oh! (BUZZER BLARES)

And, finally, 34-year-old Victorian Chantelle True

got all hung up on the Butterfly Wall.

This is the longest we've ever seen a ninja on the Butterfly Wall.

Here we go! This might just be the opportunity she gets.

Oh!

(SHOUTS AND LAUGHS)

(APPLAUSE)

(SUSPENSEFUL MUSIC)

Get ready, Australia, to reacquaint yourself

with one of our most inspirational ninjas.

It's Invictus Games star

Mark Daniels! Come on, Mark!

'Ninja Warrior' has changed my life. I get recognised everywhere I go.

FREDDIE: Come on, Mark!

The Swing Surfer.

Oh, he's on! Oh, my goodness!

Mark Daniels has landed on the board.

Unbelievable!

You see so many able-bodied people on TV.

You don't see anyone representing people with disabilities.

And mainly the best part is the kids with the disabilities.

So, being able to really represent that part of Australia

and show what is possible -

that's been the best part of 'Ninja Warrior' for me,

being able to be on a national platform,

showing everyone what I can do and what they can do

if they don't limit themselves.

(INSPIRATIONAL MUSIC)

I met Max about three years ago.

(POIGNANT MUSIC)

His mum messaged me on social media, and she said

that her son was really struggling.

(GROANS) I can't! WOMAN: Remember,

get your bottom on to the... No!

..the rope.

Max was ten at the time, and he's had three strokes.

The left side of his body doesn't work.

So, I went out and met Max.

We played some PlayStation, and I showed him a few exercises he can do

with the one side of his body that works.

And then his mum sent me a video of Max in the hospital waiting room,

and he had his walking stick,

and he was doing pistol squats on one leg in the waiting room

while he was waiting.

Got him to the Invictus Games in 2018.

We were able to show him what people with disabilities

can do on the world stage,

and show him the best of the best.

And since then, Max has just transformed.

He's absolutely 'Ninja Warrior' mad.

Whoo-hoo!

Oh, now this one.

This kid's had everything thrown at him,

but he just gets up, he smiles, and he works through it.

So, having him on the sidelines tonight is gonna mean everything -

having that little guy that's fought so hard to get through everything,

just seeing what we can do.

(CHEERING)

FREDDIE: Now, who can forget Mark Daniels?

This lad is a true inspiration.

Lost his leg three years ago.

Since then, Invictus athlete,

and he's here on the 'Ninja Warrior' course,...

..competing with one leg.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Words cannot describe how incredible this is. This is just amazing.

REBECCA: This guy is the definition of inspirational,

and he's dedicating tonight's run to his little mate Max,

who's in the crowd with his mum, Kirsten.

BEN: Here we go - Mark Daniels, again,

back to show us what spirit is really made of.

Just watch this, ladies and gentlemen.

Everybody watching this - on TV, in the crowd - just in awe.

(CHEERING)

Just strength, both physically and mentally, and resilience.

Look at him. He does look stronger than last year.

He's leaping between the Quintuple Steps.

(CHEERING)

Yes, Mark Daniels! Mark Daniels,

well done, champion.

That's the Quintuple Steps done and dusted.

But right now, he's about to try and grab a hold of the Butterfly Wall.

But first of all, he's gotta perfectly time

this trampoline manoeuvre.

He's somehow gotta bounce on to the trampoline,

propel himself on to the Butterfly Wall.

This all-important, crucial bounce off the trampoline.

(CHEERING)

This is gonna be so difficult. Come on, Mark.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

HOSTS: Oh no!

(BUZZER BLARES) Just couldn't get there.

But Mark, once again,

flooring everyone with his heart and determination.

Yeah, this bloke is a show-stopper.

Everyone loves watching him in action.

So many ninjas have had problems on the trampoline,

and that's what happened to him. What an individual.

You got through the Quintuple Steps. Obviously,

the trampoline was always gonna be hard work.

But it's one thing being physically strong,

but mentally you must be so tough.

I think, having a disability, life throws everything at you,

and you don't have a choice. You've gotta get up in the morning.

You've gotta put your leg on, which hurts,

and you've gotta be tough enough to deal with life.

I think, you get a course like this,

and you've gotta be tough enough to get through it.

Having a disability, you don't get a choice.

'Ninja Warrior', you don't get a choice either.

Mate, you're an absolute winner. We all love you here.

Ladies and gentlemen, big round of applause! Top man.

Cheers, Mark. All the best, mate.

(CHEERING)

Look at little Max's face. It may not have gone Mark's way tonight,

but he's created some great memories once again.

Now, time for a new ninja with plenty to prove.

He's already seen his best mate carve up the course.

Can our next ninja match him or go even further?

This is Will Kelly.

(CHEERING)

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

Will Kelly on the start line -

already seen his mate Jarryd Sutton run the course.

Will's turn this time.

Looking a little bit nervous on the start line.

Jarryd coming off on the Bar Hop. He'll wanna go past that -

try and book himself a place in the semi-final.

(BEEPING)

Here comes the 20-year-old from 'Radelaide' in South Australia,

Will Kelly.

Time to show what he can do.

Be patient. Be patient.

Taking his time.

Doesn't wanna make any early mistakes.

One obstacle down - just five to go, my friend.

Nice and high.

Jarryd giving him advice on the sidelines.

Needs to attack this trampoline, get some height, distance...

Oh, just manages to cling on. I thought he hadn't done enough.

Didn't really attack the trampoline but got away with it.

Yes, Freddie, but he finds himself spinning around on the Butterfly.

Missed his chance to get off quickly.

He's going for it.

Yes! He's got it! Will makes it through the Butterfly Wall.

Great recovery from Will Kelly.

Now he's gonna take on the Bridge of Blades.

Over in a flash. Go on, lad.

Oh, big jump. Heavy landing on the platform,

but he's alright. He's still running.

Take your time and breathe!

Similar run to Jarryd -

grinding his way through the first three obstacles,

with three more to go.

But now the Bar Hop. This is where Jarryd came unstuck.

And this is Will's moment of truth.

Can he pass this obstacle?

Grabs the first of the bars -

1.6m...

He needs to lache.

Place it on the hooks.

Oh, he's done the first one. He looks strong, this lad.

Unassuming, quiet but strong.

Look at him. Look at the strength in the arms, holding himself up.

He's gonna start thinking now -

"I can possibly get to the end of this course."

But you cannot take anything for granted.

One little mistake, one slip-up, you end up in the water.

Let's go!

Just needs to complete this. Be careful, mate.

He's got this little roll-ey going on here at the moment, and...

(HOSTS EXCLAIM)

Same as his mate! Same as Jarryd.

In the water on the Bar Hop. Can you believe it?

The warning signs were there for Will.

He decided to use an overhand grip.

Instead of one hand under, one hand over.

That would have given him more control of the bar, the mixed grip.

Instead, it was rolling in the cradle before the jump,

then, when he landed, his hands opened and he rolled off the bar.

It was all over.

Great effort from Will,

and these two best mates from Adelaide

have really become crowd favourites tonight.

# Will, Jarryd, Jarryd and Will

# Ninja's our main game and we'll get our fill. #

Yeah!

(BEATBOXES)

# Your heart begins racing up at the start

# If you don't train You do this course, you'll pop

# 'Cause neat or scruff Lean or buff

# If you complete the course Then you done enough. #

Yeah.

Yeah! On ya, boys.

Two newbie ninjas who've made their mark,

and hopefully we'll see them again in the semifinals.

Australian Ninja Warrior returns right after the break.

Still to come, season three grand finalist Danial Wyles-Wall.

One of the favourites for the Power Tower, Zed Colback,

is back to conquer his nemesis.

He looks confident. He looks strong.

Come on, Zed! Oh, what?

(YELLS)

And Surfin' Twinja number two, Luke Filippi,

is coming right up.

BEN: Tonight's top two furthest fastest ninjas

will face off on the all-new Power Tower

for a game-changing advantage -

all thanks to Energizer.

REBECCA: Welcome back to season four of Australian Ninja Warrior.

So far we've only see one ninja, Matt Filippi,

make it up the Warped Wall tonight.

You beauty!

As things stand, he's heading to the Power Tower

for a ninja-versus-ninja showdown

to gain a game-changing advantage in the semifinals.

During the break, three more ninjas rose to the challenge,

including a grand finalist from last year, Danial Wyles-Wall.

FREDDIE: Look at him flying through the air.

Straight on to the Bridge of Blades. He won't even stop.

One more fly, one more catch,

and Danial Wyles-Wall is about to touch the mat.

Oh, no! Wow!

Then returnee Revhead Ninja Loki Kuroi

became another victim of poor tramp technique.

She's gotta really blast her way off this tramp.

Up, girl! Up, girl! Oh! No, she's missed it.

She's missed it.

Before yoga instructor Rhys Menzel was bent out of shape

on the Bar Hop.

Oh, no, no, no, no!

Go, Rhysey!

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

On the course right now,

the second of the Surfin' Twinjas,

Luke Filippi.

(CHIME SOUNDS)

And just like he did for twin brother Matt's run,

Pa Rambo is watching on on the big screen,

remembering Matt is the only ninja tonight who has hit the buzzer.

Can Luke make it a family affair and do the same?

A big bounce on that trampoline. Manages to cling on.

Straight on to the zip wire.

Luke Filippi. The Bridge of Blades.

He has a quick look at it and just whips straight through.

Nice! Luke is looking strong and moving well.

On to obstacle four, the Bar Hop, in around 40 seconds.

This has caused problems all night long, though.

Let's see how he goes.

On to the first bar.

Looks like he's going with the overhand, instead of the mixed grip.

Is that the right move?

Oh, no! Ohh!

Like is gone. We did not expect that.

Luke was looking good, and that is a real shock.

Oh, no!

Yeah. Oh, no. Pa Rambo, he's disappointed.

Luke's disappointed.

Oh, he's telling himself off for not using the right grip.

Yeah, I think he knows it, Bec.

His lower body was in a great position for the hop,

but upstairs was a little slower.

He tried to rush the bar into a cradle,

but as his bodyweight followed,

it just peeled his fingers in that overhand grip

straight off the bar.

Wipeout.

That might yet be enough for the semifinals, though, Ben.

We'll have to see, but Luke will not be on the Power Tower tonight.

And I hope our next ninja didn't see that.

He's got his own history with the Bar Hop.

A grand finalist in season two and a semifinalist last year.

Bring on some noise for the mighty Zed Colback.

So, last season was a bit disappointing for me.

Oh, my goodness me.

Got to the Bar Hop, and...

That is phenomenal.

The great escape! Oh! Oh, no, Zed!

No! He's out!

Got disqualified on it, which was pretty frustrating.

Call it soon. There it is. (BUZZER SOUNDS)

Season two, I also came off on the Bar Hop.

2:27 left on the clock,

and he looks confident.

He looks strong! Oh!

(YELLS)

So, the Bar Hop's definitely been a pain for me to get through.

I've been training a lot of movements like the Bar Hop.

I've been doing a bit of that

just to try and get more of that awareness,

and hopefully that will help me.

It's definitely not what I'm gonna get out on this season.

I'm not gonna get out this season, hopefully.

Zed Colback, brother-in-law of Sam Goodall.

Now, there's rivalry between the two of them,

but if I was Zed, I would not be concentrating on Sam.

It's the Bar Hop. It's seen him off twice.

If he wants to progress in this competition,

he needs to be perfect tonight.

He's capable of it, Freddie,

and he'll have his eyes on a Power Tower spot.

Also watching in the crowd is little Abby and mum, Rachel,

who's of course, Zed's sister and Sam's wife.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

(CHIME SOUNDS)

A lot of the ninjas see Zed Colback as one of the contenders.

He's looked good in every season,

but never quite fulfilled his potential.

Making his way through the steps, and that's easy work for Zed.

Doesn't break his stride.

Straight on to the Butterfly. He's moving quickly, Zed Colback.

And now he's got the Bridge of Blades.

Should be no problem for him. He is quick!

That's three obstacles in just over 20 seconds.

Good job, buddy! Good job!

Great start for Zed, but this is his nemesis.

The obstacle that keeps him up at night, the Bar Hop.

It's taken him out the last two years running, Ben,

and that has gotta get in your head.

Really good back swing and send it.

Tension all over Sam's facing, telling Zed to get a good back swing.

Now, you get the feeling this will make or break him.

FREDDIE: Zed Colback on the Bar Hop.

Swinging away, one hand hooked over, one hand underarm grip.

There you go. He's so deliberate.

And he's not rushing, Freddie, he's really taking his time,

And I think at this point, with his background,

that is a good strategy tonight.

On the fixed bar in the middle.

Taking the chance to shake out some of the lactic acid in those arms.

Ready for the next hop.

Lands it!

Beautiful!

Good! Yeah, mix it! Nice!

One more to go.

One hand over, one hand under. Starting to swing.

It's all down to this.

Oh, he just doesn't seem comfortable, though.

I think the bar's rolling around a bit.

Come on, Zed! Yes!

Oh, he's got it!

Blows out the cheeks. He's gonna jump down.

You can see what that means to Zed to finally get past that Bar Hop.

He's a happy boy.

Now, the Flying Shelf Grab.

This is where Alex Matthews stumbled.

You've got it, man. Alright.

Zed needs to beat him to get to the Power Tower,

but this is another upper body killer.

So, this is gonna be a real test.

He's gonna have to dig deeper than he's ever dug before.

Does he have enough juice left in those arms?

Yes, he does!

One more to go, Zed, and then you've just got the wall in front of you.

Go, go, go! Yes! He holds it!

All he's gotta do is land this

and then he's looking good at the Power Tower.

Winds up. There you go!

Straight up the Warped Wall!

Straight up the Warped Wall! You betcha!

Hits the buzzer. Blasts the fireworks into the sky.

And Zed Colback locks himself in...

Thank you!

..with a potential shot at the Power Tower.

Zed Colback, you are back.

Whoo!

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

He's never looked better through the first three obstacles,

and then he took his time on his nemesis, the Bar Hop,

executing each lache and landing perfectly.

No room for errors,

and that's set him up to become only the second ninja

to complete the course tonight.

That was a hard heat course, was it?

I'm wrecked!

Yeah, have a look up at that Power Tower.

Do you fancy having a crack at that?

I would hope so. Stand by, everybody.

Stand by, Australia. Congratulations.

Put your hands together for Zed Colback.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Just the second ninja up the wall tonight.

There's brother-in-law Sam with the congratulations.

He'll be hoping he can hit the buzzer too a little later.

Let's check the leaderboard.

It's Matt Filippi and Zed Colback

in the top two Power Tower spots

right now.

Nobody else has finished the course.

Twitch Ninja James Sayers

is in fourth.

Danial Wyles-Wall is eighth,

with Surfin' Twinja Luke Filippi

ninth,

and the Big Ninja Alex Bigg

rounding out the top ten.

When we return, an incredible story of endurance and sacrifice.

You won't believe what this ninja did for his mate.

Your mind is so much stronger than you may believe.

Matt Laycock hits the course.

The Tradie Ninja, Sam Goodall.

Has he got what it takes to make the Power Tower?

And next, it's time for Jesse Appleby

to rev up the course.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

REBECCA: Welcome back to Australian Ninja Warrior,

where the competition has been fierce from the get-go.

It has, Bec, but every ninja wants a top two spot

and a shot at the all-new Power Tower.

Yes, it's at the very end of the night.

It's where our two speediest ninjas will face off,

except they won't be racing the clock.

They'll be racing each other for a ten-second advantage

in the semifinals.

It comes down to speed, Bec,

and maybe our next ninja has what it takes to get the job done.

She's a successful businesswoman

who likes riding her motorbike in high heels.

Get ready, Australia - it's Jesse Appleby.

(DRIVING ROCK MUSIC)

WOMAN: I love fast motorbikes.

My bike is a Ducati Panigale.

It's designed for racing.

Just because I'm a girl, doesn't mean the guys can keep up with me.

The moment I actually turn on the ignition, I just feel empowered.

Throttle, speed, that adrenalin feeling

makes me feel strong and focused, and I'm in charge.

In the corporate environment, in sales,

when I'm heading to meetings,

power means taking charge of that meeting.

Owning it, making it mine.

(DRIVING ROCK MUSIC)

I do have a say. It's deals in heels.

Do we have a deal? We do.

Pleasure. Thank you.

And I'm here to close the deal on Australian Ninja Warrior.

Here we go - our next ninja making a grand entrance.

Jess Appleby.

She's getting off her custom Ducati.

Whoo! Go, Jesse!

Hope she takes her helmet off. That should be tricky.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Alright, I like firsts here on Australian Ninja Warrior,

and that is a first.

We have never had a Ducati at the starter's gate before.

This is a woman on a mission.

ALL: Let's go!

Jesse's sister, Julie,

and some of her training buddies are on the sideline.

Some vocal support.

Opted not for stilettos on this one.

(CHIME SOUNDS)

And that is the starter's bell,

and off she goes on the Quintuple Steps.

She's attacking them.

She was always gonna, wasn't she? She's turned up on a super bike.

She's not gonna hang around.

Well, she's one down, and she looks like she's in control.

She's light.

52 kilos of her,

and we've seen that can cause trouble on the tramp!

Oh, no! Didn't even make the leap.

When we look back at the replay,

you'll see she wasn't quite in the middle of that mini tramp,

and we know it's crucial.

That's right, Bec.

Tramp technique again the issue.

Jesse's feet were too far in front of the tramp's centre.

She couldn't get enough air on the bounce,

and instead it was a head-on collision.

Tough break for Jesse.

It seems such an easy part of the course,

but the mini tramp has caused its fair share of problems tonight,

and next to take it on is a first-time ninja

who broke a world record

by helping his paraplegic mate climb to Mount Everest base camp.

Here is Matt Laycock.

MAN: When I met Scott, who's paraplegic,

I was just super shocked by how inspiring he is.

(LAUGHTER)

I was like, "What can I do? What can I do?

"How can I figure out a way to help his goals?"

Which was to inspire people to not be defined by their adversities.

For him, not to be defined by your wheelchair.

We came up with the idea

of first paraplegic to climb Everest Base Camp,

which would be a world record.

(MOMENTOUS MUSIC SWELLS)

MAN: Matt was the one that gave me that drive.

I knew I could do it.

I wouldn't be able to do any of it without putting my trust in Matt.

The climb up Mount Everest Base Camp was really intense.

It was a combination of me holding Scott's legs

and him walking on his hands,

and then Scott on my back.

We were actually extremely sick by the altitude

and the lack of oxygen.

There was a few times where I'd be just, like, scrabbling

and can't really keep going,

but Matt would be there, just saying,

"Keep pushing. Look how far you've come.

I could always rely on him.

It was really ten days of immense pain and suffering

for a really beautiful goal.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Ninja Warrior is my next challenge.

I really just want to show people

that if you can work hard and believe in yourself and your goals,

then you can achieve anything.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

What an amazing story,

and I'm sure Scott is watching at home,

wishing his mate the best of luck.

Matt Laycock from Queensland.

He carried his paraplegic mate up to Base Camp of Mount Everest.

Now, if he can do that,

I reckon he's got a chance on the Ninja Warrior course.

And to have a chance on the Power Tower,

Matt will need to improve on Zed Colback's time.

2:34 to beat.

(CHIME SOUNDS)

The bell rings and he is off.

Certainly looks the part.

79 kilos and 179cm tall,

and through the Steps easily.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Sizing up the Butterfly Wall.

Needs to make sure on the tramp.

Straight over! He nearly bounced over the Butterfly Wall.

Ohh! Yeah!

His backside just skidded across that mat.

Now, the Bridge of Blades of blades. Oh, he's a beauty.

Oh, yes! He is a beauty!

I like this guy, Matt Laycock.

I haven't got a favourite tonight.

You may just fall into that category.

And he's on to the Bar Hop.

Nearly ten seconds faster than Zed Colback.

The one thing I'm worried about here.

He's got a natty little hairband at the back.

If that comes off and goes in the water, out.

Oh, let's hope that doesn't happen, Freddie,

because, Matt, he's on the charge here.

This is remarkable from a first-time ninja.

He's a surprise packet, this bloke. Isn't he what?

If he can just hold on to this next one,

he has a shot at making the semis.

He's done it.

I think he's just booked a spot in the semis.

We love a surprise packet here on Australian Ninja Warrior,

and, Matt Laycock, you are certainly one of those!

Could we be seeing a new ninja going to the Power Tower?

We know all about Matt's spirit and the amazing things he's done.

Can he dig deep and reach the summit of his course?

He's on the Flying Shelves.

Matt Laycock.

On to the first of the Flying Shelves.

Swinging around on to the second.

Oh, he just didn't go far enough!

What a shame for Matt Laycock,

but that was a really impressive debut for the 22-year-old.

You've gotta be perfect on the Flying Shelves.

Matt didn't drive the hips up enough in the lache.

He just misjudged the height difference, I think,

on the second shelf,

and just couldn't get anywhere near it.

What a performance from Matt Laycock.

He's definitely one to follow in the semifinals,

and I am sure there is plenty more to come from him.

Coming up, there's just one more ninja left to tackle this course,

and he's one of the best.

Next, Sam Goodall returns for his fourth season.

Whenever he's on the course, there's thrills...

Three, two, one! Hit it! (KLAXON BLARES)

Yes!

Ohh, Sam!

..spills...

Missed it! He's slipped, just like that!

..and drama.

Sam Goodall. I think he's struggling here.

Babe! Have a rest!

Just looks absolutely shattered.

Sam Goodall - ready to go for season four right after this.

REBECCA: Welcome back, everybody, to Australian Ninja Warrior.

BEN: Where dozens of ordinary people have descended on Melbourne

to compete on the obstacle course from hell.

Heat three has been a massive challenge for our ninjas.

Some of the biggest names have given it their all and been beaten.

Makes the leap, but he's in the pool.

And only two ninjas have managed to finish the course

and hit the buzzer.

Matt Filippi... You beauty!

..and Zed Colback.

Hits the buzzer. Zed Colback!

They're currently set to go head-to-head

on the Power Tower

and race for a crucial ten-second time advantage

in the semifinals,

but there's one more ninja who might have something to say about that.

If you can't make it to Mount Midoriyama,

make Mount Midoriyama come to you.

Yes, he built his own mountain.

It is Tradie Ninja Sam Goodall!

(MOMENTOUS MUSIC BUILDS)

This is my fourth season of Ninja.

First season, I was the ninja who bumped his head.

He's hit his head.

He might even be bleeding.

Second season, I was the ninja who passed out.

Sam Goodall - I think he's struggling here.

Babe!

I'm not quite sure what's going on.

Third season, I was the ninja who was too slow.

Sam Goodall!

He's got four seconds left! Three seconds!

This would be remarkable! Two seconds! One second!

Can he do it? (BUZZER SOUNDS)

And sadly, he's not gonna get there. Oh, no! Within a second!

He doesn't get there. He just misses out.

That was pretty devastating,

especially because I felt fit and healthy,

and I know I could have gone faster.

I wanna show you something really exciting I've just been doing,

so come on through.

After season one, I built Mount Midoriyama at home,

'cause I knew one day I'd have to get there and have to do it.

Since then, I've probably built upwards of 40 or 50 obstacles.

Being down in Albany, as you know, I'm far from anyone else.

So, I decided the only way to fix that

was to build a ninja community here in my home town.

Noticed all the groups that do ninja together

really improved a lot more than I did, because I was by myself.

I had no-one to push me and no-one to train with.

And we are building a gym.

We've built a great indoor adventure centre.

In Albany, I now am less on the tools

and a lot more involved in ninja community and ninja events.

I'm hitting the course now stronger than I ever have been.

I'm 32 years old. I still haven't hit my peak as far as I'm aware.

So, I think my best run is yet to come.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

FREDDIE: Here he is - it's the Tradie Ninja,

and I'm getting into the spirit of things.

I've got my shirt on from Sam.

Three-time grand finalist.

Desperate to make it a fourth.

This year, he says, he's fighting fit.

Not only is he taking the course on,

but he wants to beat brother-in-law Zed Colback.

He has thrown down the gauntlet.

He has indeed, Freddie.

Matt Filippi still leads the way,

but Zed is in the second

Power Tower spot

in a time of 2:34.

That's the time he's gotta beat

if he wants a crack at that game-changing advantage

for the semifinals.

Well, I'm sure it's a bit of mixed feelings for Zed on the sidelines,

but he'll be right behind Sam,

along with Sam's wife, Rachel, and daughter, Abby.

Sam Goodall looks a lot happier this year in season four

than he did two years ago

when he was in the middle of suffering with Ross River fever.

He's been doing a lot of training. He says he's raring to go!

He goes straight through! He's taken the shortcut.

Straight into the Butterfly Wall. Oh, that is...

On to the rope already.

He's giving it some! Through the Bridge of Blades.

Here he goes to the Bar Hop.

He's gonna have to slow down.

This is the first obstacle where he's gonna really have to think.

This is some start from Sam - at the Bar Hop in under 20 seconds.

He's way ahead of Zed at this point.

Yes!

He keeps on powering at a record rate.

This is one of the fastest runs in this heat.

Oh! Oooh!

The bar falls behind him, but that's OK.

A bit of a stretch there, but he makes it.

Reaches for the second bar.

Just one more hop and then he'll lache onto the platform.

There we go. Sam Goodall flying through the course.

This is incredible!

Sam is nearly a minute faster than Zed.

We've never seen anything like this from him before.

Just the Flying Shelf Grab and the Warped Wall remaining.

Now, he needs to keep a cool head on this first shelf.

Get that swing going, ready for the jump.

This is a big catch. He makes it. Grits his teeth.

There's only one more to go and then he's got the Warped Wall.

Can he make the final lache? Got it!

Oh, this is a master class from the Tradie Ninja.

He's not gonna stop.

Oh, don't worry, he won't stop... Oh, he's taken a fall!

The Tradie Ninja has taken a tumble.

Is he hurt? There's a concern in the crowd.

Zed's running in. Oh, no!

He's flat on his back. No, he's not! No, he's not!

He gets straight back up, smile on his face,

and up the Warped Wall!

That's how you do it! (KLAXON BLARES)

Sam Goodall, you are sensational!

And look at little Abby celebrate.

Incredible from Sam - 1:38.

He is going to the Power Tower.

Talk about giving us a fright, Sam Goodall.

What happened? Did you lose your footing?

Just gotta catch my breath. Fair enough.

Mate, that was the problem -

you didn't take a breath between the obstacles.

How was the face plant?

I hit my face, did I? Is it OK?

Yeah. Oh, you look beautiful. Don't worry about that.

Still gorgeous, still gorgeous.

Spend all day in steelcaps, your feet are a lot heavier.

Put light shoes on and you can't keep up with them.

Mate, you made it to the top of the Warped Wall.

That's the only thing that matters.

And guess what -

that was the second fastest time of the night, even with the stumble.

You champion.

You're on your way to the Power Tower.

Fantastic. Go and enjoy it, mate.

Thanks, guys.

We've never seen Sam look as fast, or as good, as he was tonight,

forcing his way through a course

that has caused problems for our ninjas all night long,

but it wouldn't be a Sam Goodall run without some drama.

Even after that stumble,

he still managed to get up the wall

and hit the buzzer nearly a minute faster than Zed.

And there's little Abby running over to dad.

She was just a baby when he started competing in Ninja Warrior.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Wow, Sam, you said you was gonna be quick.

You're looking fighting fit, son.

Thanks, mate. Yeah, you too. Suits you.

I think that's as fast as I've ever seen you.

You do look notably quicker than last year.

Yeah, definitely felt a lot stronger, a lot fitter.

Yeah, my lungs held up. That's all I was worried about.

Zed, you're gonna have to raise your game in the semifinals now.

I know. I've got some room to make up.

Ladies and gentlemen, Sam Goodall. Cheers, lads.

There is no doubt Sam has stepped it up this year.

His reward - a shot at the Power Tower against Matt Filippi.

This is gonna be something special. Here's the leaderboard.

Adelaide best mates

Will Kelly and Jarryd Sutton

both qualify for the semifinals -

Will in 16th and Jarryd in 13th.

The Big Ninja Alex Bigg

is in 12th position,

with Surfin' Twinja

Luke Filippi 11th.

After a fantastic performance,

Matt Laycock takes out sixth spot,

one behind the Twitch Ninja

James Sayers in fifth.

But at the top,

Zed Colback just misses out

on the Power Tower,

beaten into third

by brother-in-law Sam Goodall,

who finishes second.

Matt Filippi

the furthest fastest tonight.

Whatever you do, don't go anywhere,

because, Bec, it's about to happen.

After the break, the two quickest ninjas,

Sam Goodall and Matt Filippi head to head.

It's going to be an epic showdown

between two former grand finalists.

Ninja versus ninja for a game-changing ten-second advantage

in the semis.

Let's bring it on. It's time for the Power Tower.

(MOMENTOUS MUSIC BUILDS)

REBECCA: Welcome back to the massive finale for tonight's heat.

It is ninja 'V' ninja,

and it is Matt Filippi up against Sam Goodall

in the Power Tower.

BEN: A thrilling one-on-one race to the top.

First to hit the buzzer gets a crucial ten-second time advantage

heading into the semifinal.

It could make all the difference.

The Surfin' Twinja versus the Tradie Ninja.

Both super fast, both super fit.

Get ready for one hell of a race,

and here they come.

On first look, Matt is 34, Sam, 32.

Matt - 178cm, Sam - 176cm.

But when it comes to weight, Matt is 20kg heavier than Sam.

82 kilos to 62.

Will that work in Sam's favour tonight on the Power Tower?

Here is what they are up against.

First on the Power Tower,

the ninjas race up five 1.5-metre steps.

At the top, it's a leap of almost 2.5 metres to the first bar.

Slide down the vertical pole to the horizontal beam.

It's an unsteady three metres to the other side.

Fall off here and the ninjas need to jump back up

and start the vertical climb to the lache bars.

Then it's a scramble across the monkey bars

and a race to the buzzer.

(KLAXON BLARES)

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

As you can see behind, the crowd are so excited.

It's Sam Goodall against Matt Filippi

for the crucial time advantage.

All will be revealed soon. Here we go.

OK, here we go. OK.

It's all or nothing now.

Sam Goodall and Matt Filippi.

Sam's got the experience, but Matt Filippi has got that physique.

(CHIME SOUNDS)

Here we go - Sam Goodall gets an early start,

but they're now neck and neck halfway up the stairs.

They are neck and neck.

There is not a millimetre in this,

launching off at exactly the same time.

Now down the pole. Exactly the same time.

This is where it gets tricky.

They've gotta get across three metres here.

Oh, they're both off at exactly the same time.

Now they've gotta get back up. Jumping.

Sam Goodall's got the head start getting back up.

Now he's up the pole.

Matt finding it a little bit hard to get back on that pole.

Has he got enough in the tank to catch Sam up that pole?

Matt Filippi's moving really quick. He's gaining on him really fast.

Sam Goodall's ahead by about two inches.

Oh, look at Matt Filippi! Oh, my goodness!

Matt Filippi's come from nowhere!

Sam Goodall! The jump of his life!

Done it! He's done it!

The Tradie Ninja, Sam Goodall.

What a comeback from Sam Goodall!

Now he's won at the Power Tower!

(MOMENTOUS MUSIC PLAYS)

He was incredible.

They were neck and neck up the stairs, on the bars,

down the pole, on the beam.

They both then hit the mat at the same time,

and then the mad scramble to the buzzer.

And I reckon Sam Goodall got it by about 1.5 seconds.

That was incredible,

and to see those two champion ninjas go head to head -

what a way to finish tonight's heat.

Freddie's down there with Sam.

Sam, you was quick on the course. You was fast on the Power Tower.

Was it ever in doubt? Thanks, Freddie.

Yeah, look, I feel at my best at the moment.

I think there's a little bit of room to improve,

but, yeah, as for running healthily, this is as good as I've ever been.

So, yeah, very happy.

And you've got the time advantage now going into the semifinals,

which is gonna be crucial.

Time has been a weakness for me in the past.

So, now with some good health, a bit of a bonus behind me,

boost the confidence a bit for sure, yeah.

Well, good luck, Sam. Well done tonight.

Ben and Bec, back to you.

Well, what a finish.

A huge congratulations to Sam Goodall

for taking out the Power Tower tonight,

but also to Matt Filippi.

What an incredible competitor,

and all of our ninjas tonight who put on an incredible performance.

Who's going to be on the Power Tower next week?

There's only one way to find out.

We'll see you soon on Australian Ninja Warrior.

Goodnight, everybody.

Next week...

Are you ready? (LAUGHS) I'm ready.

..it's the fourth and final qualifying heat,

and the Furthest Fastest

from all three series of Australian Ninja Warrior...

How good is this bloke, Fred Dorrington?

..are here for the biggest face-off...

Yes! Rob Patterson!

..of the competition.

Charlie Robbins, this will be a night you will never forget.

But there's no guarantees,

with plenty of returning grand finalists hot on their heels.

MAN: I can genuinely say I'm as ready as I'll ever be.

11-time world surfing champion Kelly Slater

also joins the party.

We've never seen a ninja heat this stacked.

MAN: Am I a silent assassin? Well, I can't tell you that.

'Cause then you'll know my secret.

Then it's the semifinals.

I've hit a buzzer in every semi. The pressure's on.

And the Power Tower gets an upgrade.

Our top two from each semi will go head to head

on this behemoth for a new game-changing advantage.

That advantage could take them one step closer

to Mount Midoriyama.

MAN: It's so easy just to make the silly mistakes

and then someone just goes bang and just takes your spot straight away.

..as we search for Australia's first Ninja Warrior.

Captioned by Ai-Media ai-media.tv