Original subtitles

Oh!

In a brand-new series of Australian Ninja Warrior...

What did I just witness?

..the mountain sought revenge.

Oh, no! No!

There were massive shocks.

Oh! No! We have lost Olivia Vivian.

And plenty of surprises, as well.

And plenty of surprises, as well.

Whoa!

Whoa!

Oh, my goodness me! You good thing!

On the toughest new obstacles we've ever seen...

You're going the wrong way! Oh!

You're going the wrong way! Oh!

..there was a new choice for the ninjas.

Path A or do they go path B?

And an all-new Power Tower with a new reward on offer.

And an all-new Power Tower with a new reward on offer.

Charlie Robbins! Charlie Robbins wins by a whisker!

Catapults himself straight into the Grand Final.

Tonight...

You can expect a lot of entertainment,

You can expect a lot of entertainment,

and a lot of happiness.

In the final heats, we'll witness the rise of the new breed...

Mount Midoriyama may have been conquered last year,

Mount Midoriyama may have been conquered last year,

but this year it's gonna be me standing at the top.

..including Jungle Jimmy Burrow,

who's brought a few friends along for support.

I'm so glad we are up here.

I'm so glad we are up here.

Physicist Dylan James.

For him, this course is rocket science.

I'm hoping to use my analytical mind to really break down obstacles

before I tackle them, and then execute the best way to do it.

Before I tackle them, and then execute the best way to do it.

And Olympic gold medallist and world champion Steve Hooker

is ready for a shot at the Ninja title.

I'm pretty driven.

You'll definitely see that when I'm out on this Ninja course.

You'll definitely see that when I'm out on this Ninja course.

Can these newcomers outclass a cavalcade of returning favourites?

I feel really confident. I'm so pumped.

Ninja royalty Jack Wilson returns from a life-changing injury.

Ninja royalty Jack Wilson returns from a life-changing injury.

Your life can flash in front of your eyes.

Chris White is back, and rumour has it

he's brought his old mate Kelly Slater along for the ride.

He's brought his old mate Kelly Slater along for the ride.

And there are plenty more familiar faces, as well.

Big reputations are on the line.

Will it be boom or bust in the last heat before the Semi-Finals

Will it be boom or bust in the last heat before the Semi-Finals

in the quest to become Australia's next Ninja Warrior?

I am back and I am hungry.

First up on the menu is a la carte buzzer.

First up on the menu is a la carte buzzer.

Welcome to the crucial final heat of Australian Ninja Warrior

Welcome to the crucial final heat of Australian Ninja Warrior

as our athletes fight for that one last chance at the Semis.

And we have certainly saved the best till last.

We're here in the shadow of a smouldering Mount Midoriyama,

We're here in the shadow of a smouldering Mount Midoriyama,

and this year we are coming to you from our new home,

Sydney Olympic Park.

Hello, everyone. I'm Rebecca Maddern.

G'day, Australia, I'm Ben Fordham, and some of the greatest athletes

G'day, Australia, I'm Ben Fordham, and some of the greatest athletes

in the world have made history right here within this stadium.

And now it's our ninjas' turn as they launch themselves

at the toughest obstacle course on earth, Bec.

That's right, Ben.

That's right, Ben.

Standing between our ninjas and Warped Wall glory tonight

are six obstacles, all requiring different skills and strengths.

First, ninjas must race across the Shrinking Steps

First, ninjas must race across the Shrinking Steps

with a rope leap to finish.

Then, it's the Big Dipper to Pole Rider.

Followed by the Cyclone Spinner,

a deceptively tricky obstacle

a deceptively tricky obstacle

that's sent many ninjas cartwheeling out of the competition.

Conquer those first three obstacles

and, this season, ninjas must choose between two paths, familiar or fast.

And, this season, ninjas must choose between two paths, familiar or fast.

Path A is the familiar path.

Our ninjas have encountered the swinging Peg Board before,

Our ninjas have encountered the swinging Peg Board before,

so they know how much upper-body strength is needed

to make it from one end to the other.

They also know that the next obstacle, the Bar Hop,

will only deepen the burn.

Will only deepen the burn.

(KLAXON BLARES)

Path B is the express route

but the obstacles are brand new to Australia,

and some of the hardest ever devised for a heat anywhere in the world.

And some of the hardest ever devised for a heat anywhere in the world.

In Weight For It, ninjas leap between four bars

that move further out of reach with each jump.

Then, it's onto the Beehive.

With its fingertip-narrow ledges,

With its fingertip-narrow ledges,

this obstacle is fast turning into a ninja graveyard.

(KLAXON BLARES)

Survive all of that and the holy grail awaits.

This year, the Warped Wall is a massive 4.35 metres,

This year, the Warped Wall is a massive 4.35 metres,

ten centimetres higher than last year.

Only the very best will hit the buzzer, and, of that elite group,

the fastest two will compete on the fearsome Power Tower.

The fastest two will compete on the fearsome Power Tower.

OK, this is how the competition works.

Tonight is the last of four heats, and we're looking for the top 19.

Tonight is the last of four heats, and we're looking for the top 19.

The winner of the Power Tower battle goes directly to the Grand Final.

Then, the next 18 after that score a place in the Semis.

And wait until you see what we've got planned there.

And wait until you see what we've got planned there.

Ninjas, you've been warned.

I'm so excited for this heat. I think everyone is, Bec.

The question is, can our ninjas step up?

There's no more chances after this.

There's no more chances after this.

The crowd is buzzing. Are we ready? Yes, we are.

Let's bring out our first ninja.

We are so thrilled that one of our most popular ninjas returns,

and the fact that he's here with us at all, let alone competing,

is near enough to a miracle.

He's a 2-time Grand Finalist.

He's back.

It's the Deadly Ninja, Jack Wilson.

It's the Deadly Ninja, Jack Wilson.

Whoo!

Let's go, brother!

Jack is back.

He's back, alright.

He's looking mighty trim.

He's looking mighty trim.

And what a journey it has been for Jack Wilson

since the last time he took on a Ninja Warrior course.

Up, up, up, up and he's away!

Up, up, up, up and he's away!

Australian Ninja Warrior means, to me, family.

And straight through the Bridge of Blades.

Oh, Jack Wilson, the Deadly Ninja!

I was loving life.

I was loving life.

You know, I was a month out from Season 4,

and then my world changed in a split second.

Three, two, one...

(AMBULANCE SIREN)

As soon as I hit that water, I knew something happened.

As soon as I hit that water, I knew something happened.

My whole body went into a sensation of pain and agony.

When they showed me those scans and that MRI, I just freaked out.

When they showed me those scans and that MRI, I just freaked out.

I was just like, "Holy crap."

You see this bone here?

Fractured and a big wedge chip off the back.

Just shattered my L3 vertebrae.

Your life can flash in front of your eyes.

Your life can flash in front of your eyes.

And, like, I'm all about that self-talk,

and staying strong, but, deep down...

and staying strong, but, deep down...

..I was scared.

I was afraid.

I was afraid.

But, as long as this up here stays strong and you stay focused,

you never give up, you can achieve anything, and I'm gonna prove that.

So, I'm glad to be here, to be walkin'

So, I'm glad to be here, to be walkin'

and to get up on that stage again and represent resilience.

I'm really nervous this year.

Just gonna take it step by step,

one foot in front of the other, and put on a show.

One foot in front of the other, and put on a show.

Whoo!

Jack is back! Jack is back! (AUDIENCE CHANTING)

Jack is back! Jack is back! Jack is back.

Oh, we've missed you, Jack Wilson.

Oh, we've missed you, Jack Wilson.

And, wow, he is pumped.

Take a look at the top of that Warped Wall

because that's where Jack is headed right now.

This is the moment he's been working towards ever since that accident.

This is the moment he's been working towards ever since that accident.

He's ready.

And a bit's happened in Jack's life in the last 12 months.

Not only has he recovered from breaking his back,

he's also married his beautiful wife, Candice,

he's also married his beautiful wife, Candice,

who is on the sideline tonight with his brother, Michael.

Congratulations to you, Jack.

OK, first up, the Shrinking Steps.

If anyone can beat the odds tonight, it's this bloke.

If anyone can beat the odds tonight, it's this bloke.

He is an absolute inspiration. He is quite extraordinary.

Well, he's extraordinary in every sense of the word, Jack Wilson.

Now the Big Dipper to Pole Rider.

Now the Big Dipper to Pole Rider.

I get the feeling this could be textbook execution.

Hips up, catches the pole, rides over the water to safety.

He's in great form already.

He's in great form already.

Now he must face the Cyclone Spinner.

This is gonna be a real test for his back, especially.

He's gotta push his body flat against the wheel.

He's gotta push his body flat against the wheel.

He needs to hold the position through four rotations,

and seven metres of track.

He's a little shaky.

He's coming off, he's coming off,

he's coming off, he's gotta hold on and he made it!

He's made it!

He's made it!

Three down. (BEC LAUGHS)

Three to go.

He is loving being back, performing in front of this crowd,

but what courage to be here.

A or B, what will it be?

A or B, what will it be?

Yes, Jack Wilson, this is brand new to Season 5.

Where's he gonna go?

The familiar obstacles of path A or the faster, the tougher path B?

The familiar obstacles of path A or the faster, the tougher path B?

One thing we know about Jack, he's a risk taker.

OK. B!

It is lane B.

Probably the most difficult obstacles

we've ever had in the heats on Australian Ninja Warrior.

We've ever had in the heats on Australian Ninja Warrior.

He's taking a bit of time, as well.

He knows he needs all of his muscle,

and the support of the crowd, and they're right behind him.

And the support of the crowd, and they're right behind him.

They know it's taken a lot for Jack to be here tonight.

Do you think he likes performing?

He loves it.

But will he love the next obstacle?

Waiting for him now is the obstacle we call Weight For It.

Waiting for him now is the obstacle we call Weight For It.

This obstacle is punishing for any ninja,

but Jack was in hospital not so long ago with a shattered L3 vertebrae.

I'm scared for him, Ben.

I'm scared for him, Ben.

No turning back now, though.

Grabs the first bar.

The second bar shoots up to the stars,

just getting his momentum sorted.

Here he comes, Jack Wilson.

Gets his swing on, and there's the transfer onto the next bar.

Eyeing off the third one.

And, as he grabs the third, the fourth will, again,

shoot up into the sky, further away from him.

Shoot up into the sky, further away from him.

Oh, look at the strain on the body.

I mean, it's one thing to be recovering from a broken back,

but he looks in great form and in great nick tonight, doesn't he?

But he looks in great form and in great nick tonight, doesn't he?

He's an extraordinary athlete.

He's very small. Get off there.

He weighs just 70kg, 178cm tall.

He is just built for this Australian Ninja Warrior course.

He is just built for this Australian Ninja Warrior course.

And here he is at the Beehive.

It's such an emotional moment. Look at him.

He's come such a long way since that terrible accident, and now

there's just one obstacle between him and the Warped Wall.

The emotion in this performance.

He's just feeling everything.

It's bringing out so much in him.

Yeah, just keep an eye on the third and final honeycomb.

Yeah, just keep an eye on the third and final honeycomb.

He's the first ninja to attempt this obstacle tonight,

and that last transition's a killer.

Now you mention it, Ben,

I'm nervous about that third and final honeycomb.

It's the hardest one of all to grip because you're leaving

It's the hardest one of all to grip because you're leaving

a side-on position and attempting to enter on a side-on position.

And he has taken a really good look at that third honeycomb,

working out where all of our other ninjas have gone wrong.

Working out where all of our other ninjas have gone wrong.

Ooh!

Well, that was a bit uncomfortable but he fixes it.

Jack, don't scare us, please.

He's got a beautiful swing.

He's gonna go for the release and catch.

He's gonna go for the release and catch.

Catch! Oh!

He lands it.

And now I get nervous.

I do not want to look at this third and final honeycomb.

I do not want to look at this third and final honeycomb.

I could not bear it if Jack Wilson

has recovered from breaking his back and falls - I'm not looking.

He's eyeballing it.

He's getting ready to launch at it.

Here comes Jack.

Oh! Oh, no, no, no, no!

No, Jack, no!

I thought, for sure, we were gonna get Jack up the Warped Wall.

I thought, for sure, we were gonna get Jack up the Warped Wall.

But I'll tell you what happened.

He got his left hand inside it but it was just the one hand.

Oh! And he couldn't hold himself up.

Oh, talk about the energy and the emotions!

Oh, talk about the energy and the emotions!

Jack is here, baby!

(AUDIENCE CHEERS)

That run was nothing short of heroic.

What an effort.

No doubt about it, Jack is back.

No doubt about it, Jack is back.

Grip and core strength kept him safe on the Cyclone Spinner.

He underestimated the lache to the final honeycomb on the Beehive,

and he ended up in the drink.

And he ended up in the drink.

Well, after a performance like that, all I can say is Jack is back!

How good, mate, welcome back.

Hey, thank you very much, brother.

Hey, thank you very much, brother.

I mean, just an influx of emotions, man.

Like...

It's all just hitting me in the stomach and the heart at the moment,

and what Ninja Warrior's done for me, and to come back from such a,

and what Ninja Warrior's done for me, and to come back from such a,

you know, a low in my life, physical and mental and spiritual struggle...

Why does it mean so much to you?

I love to see people, you know, having a go at life,

so that's why I do it, man, that's why I do it.

So that's why I do it, man, that's why I do it.

You do it so well, you inspire so many.

It's so good to have Jack back.

Well done, buddy.

Thanks, everyone that made some noise out there.

I felt the energy. You mob are amazing!

I felt the energy. You mob are amazing!

Go and take it in, go and take it in.

How good's Jack.

Nice to have you back, Jack.

Based on that performance,

Jack is well on track for a spot in the Semis.

Jack is well on track for a spot in the Semis.

But who will be there with him?

Our next ninja is new to the competition.

Our next ninja is new to the competition.

She's an emergency room doctor with an unconventional hobby.

Welcome, Alvina Ng.

I am a medical doctor.

I work in an emergency department.

I work in an emergency department.

When I go to ER, sometimes, they will be like,

"Oh, when can I get to see the doctor?"

And I'm like, "I am the doctor."

I'm just gonna have a listen to your heart, OK?

I've been a doctor for just over four years now.

I've been a doctor for just over four years now.

How many lives have I saved?

Roughly about ten, I would say, ten to 15.

Normally, I think people have this stereotypical perception of doctors

Normally, I think people have this stereotypical perception of doctors

being serious and not fun, but...

I love pole dancing a lot.

I think being a pole dancer myself, I think, everyone, again,

I think being a pole dancer myself, I think, everyone, again,

the stereotype, "Oh, you're a pole dancer.

"How are you a doctor, as well?"

I would like to set the example for people

that you can be whoever you want to be.

You can be a doctor and you can still be a pole dancer.

You can be a doctor and you can still be a pole dancer.

You've got one life and you've gotta make full use of it.

Focus and achieve your dreams.

And check out the big screen, Alvina.

Two of your biggest fans have joined us tonight.

Two of your biggest fans have joined us tonight.

Mum and dad are watching on all the way from Malaysia.

Give them a big round of applause.

There they are, Alvina!

Good luck, Alvina.

(BUZZER TONE)

Alvina's first obstacle, the Shrinking Steps.

This is a lot trickier than it looks,

even for a medical professional.

Oh, she's missed the platform. She's swinging back.

Makes the second attempt. Yes, she can.

Makes the second attempt. Yes, she can.

Oh, how did she get away with that?

She's in the business of saving things.

Oh, mum and dad know that was close.

A shaky start for Alvina but she needs to regroup and concentrate

on the next obstacle, the Big Dipper to Pole Rider.

On the next obstacle, the Big Dipper to Pole Rider.

Well, she'll be good on this apparatus because...

Oh, look at the pole dancing.

..she's also a pole dancer.

We may need an ER doctor in the crowd pretty soon.

Oh, OK.

Oh, OK.

There's a few blokes fainting.

She might be a proficient pole dancer,

but the Pole Rider requires a whole different set of skills.

Alvina looks a little hesitant.

Ready?

Ready?

Set...

Here we go.

You've got this.

Go!

No! No!

No! No!

Alvina's big dip didn't work out on the Big Dipper.

But look at the big smile - well done.

Alvina didn't engage her upper body on the Big Dipper,

so, when the bar kicked up,

she had to rely on her grip strength alone and she wound up code blue.

OK, nervous types, block your ears for this introduction.

OK, nervous types, block your ears for this introduction.

Our next ninja lives in the Blue Mountains in NSW

with his family and 15 snakes, Jimmy Burrow.

Yeah, you could say I'm sort of a wild man.

Like, instead of growing up with dogs and cats,

I had a house full of snakes and lizards.

Oh!

I can breathe.

Jimmy's always been into nature

because we've grown up around nature.

I was always into climbing as a kid.

Mum, sort of, she didn't say no,

Mum, sort of, she didn't say no,

she sorta, like, pushed it, she was like,

"Yeah, OK, let's build a rope swing in the house,

"let's put a swing in the house,

"let's put slacklines in our backyards."

I just started drilling holes in the ceiling.

There'd be at least 30 holes, and Steve would be on the couch,

There'd be at least 30 holes, and Steve would be on the couch,

he'd say, "That's enough."

Unknowingly, I've been training for Ninja Warrior my whole life.

I just didn't really realise until a year ago

I just didn't really realise until a year ago

when I was like, "Maybe I should apply for it."

I started training and it was just, like, second nature for me.

I've grown up pretty fearless dealing with snakes,

so I don't think the course will be that much of a drama.

So I don't think the course will be that much of a drama.

Throw it at me.

And Jimmy is fired up.

He's also brought the entire household down the mountains

to support him.

We've got a couple of animated pythons, as well.

We've got a couple of animated pythons, as well.

Oh!

(DISGUSTED GROAN)

I'm so glad we are up here.

Ugh!

Uh!

Uh!

(BUZZER TONE)

Here we go, the snake man, Jimmy Burrow.

Ready to go on the Shrinking Steps. Completes it.

Done and dusted. No time wasted.

Yeah, he's moving quickly, Bec,

Yeah, he's moving quickly, Bec,

straight up on the Big Dipper to Pole Rider.

And let's see if he can land it on the mat - yes, he does.

He's flying.

One of the quickest starts we've seen in any of the heats so far.

One of the quickest starts we've seen in any of the heats so far.

Now, he needs to press his body

lower than a snake's belly here, but his butt jutting out a lot.

This isn't looking good.

Hold on there, he's fighting it, he's fighting it.

Gotta get to the end.

Gotta get to the end.

He's done it. Now, where did he come from?

His time to this point is officially

the fastest we've seen from any ninja in these heats.

He's just opted for path A, the known obstacles,

He's just opted for path A, the known obstacles,

and this bloke from the Blue Mountains is really ripping in.

Quite incredible how confident he is on this course, considering,

remember at home, ladies and gentlemen,

remember at home, ladies and gentlemen,

he has never been on Australian Ninja Warrior,

and he is attacking this course tonight like a seasoned campaigner.

Look at that.

So strong in the upper body.

He's doing a great job.

He's doing a great job.

First-time ninja right here.

And look at him go, Crawf, switches to the next peg board.

If you think he looks like

he's got an obstacle like this in his lounge room, he does.

Yes! Straight through.

Jimmy Burrow.

Jimmy Burrow.

Lock that name into your memory bank

because this bloke is showing all the ninjas how it's done.

He's keeping a cracking pace.

But this next obstacle is the real test.

Jimmy's muscles will be burning,

Jimmy's muscles will be burning,

and how he has to use those exact same muscles all over again

on the Bar Hop to get across to the Warped Wall.

Here he goes on the first bar hop,

making sure he lands this successfully.

Making sure he lands this successfully.

He does.

Now it's the stationary bar in the middle.

He'll get a little bit of a respite in the centre there.

Oh, we have found a new ninja, Australia, right here.

The snake man.

The snake man.

One more lache to the end.

There he goes.

He's done it.

Here he goes.

Come on, Jimmy Burrow, we want you up that Warped Wall.

Jimmy Burrow's setting a cracking pace.

Jimmy Burrow's setting a cracking pace.

Here we go.

Hey, the thumbs up,

and will he slither all the way up to the Warped Wall?

He's making a huge play for a spot on the Power Tower.

His first attempt may be his only attempt

as he gets ready to catapult himself up the Warped Wall.

Remember, the wall is a full ten centimetres higher this year.

Yes! He's done it!

Yes! He's done it!

He heads the buzzer, and heads to the Power Tower.

Jimmy Burrow!

We'd not heard of the bloke two minutes ago

We'd not heard of the bloke two minutes ago

and now, all of a sudden, he is the talk of Sydney Olympic Park.

What a run that was.

Jimmy only slowed the pace on the Bar Hop, carefully judging his jumps

Jimmy only slowed the pace on the Bar Hop, carefully judging his jumps

to make sure the bar didn't shoot off the cradle.

Perfect foot placement and take-off rocketed him up the Warped Wall,

and, with that, newcomer Jimmy Burrow becomes the first ninja tonight

and, with that, newcomer Jimmy Burrow becomes the first ninja tonight

to hit the buzzer with a quite incredible time of 2:22.

Jimmy.

It's nice to meet you, brother.

How are ya? Good. How are you?

How are ya? Good. How are you?

Where the hell did you come from?

The mountains.

You, all of a sudden, have got everyone talking here.

They're wondering whether you're the new one to beat.

Do you feel like you're a favourite?

Do you feel like you're a favourite?

Oh, yeah, I reckon, yeah.

Love that confidence, Bec.

You looked very confident on that course tonight, Jimmy.

Go down and see your so-called friends down there, please.

Thank you. Jimmy Burrow.

Thank you. Jimmy Burrow.

Wow, he is the new wonderkid.

Jimmy Burrow has just delivered one of the fastest times of these heats.

It's hard to imagine Mount Midoriyama letting anyone beat it.

It's hard to imagine Mount Midoriyama letting anyone beat it.

Its wall has been breached and so early in the night.

I can already feel the mountain seething.

The other ninjas will have to step up to the plate now, won't they, Ben?

The other ninjas will have to step up to the plate now, won't they, Ben?

Ahead tonight, it's their final chance to make the Semis

as Ninja's best take on the angry Mount Midoriyama.

Coming up, Paul Culloty, the Irish Ninja.

Coming up, Paul Culloty, the Irish Ninja.

Sam Goodall, the Tradie Ninja.

And Jake 'Rat Daddy' Baker.

Plus, a new breed of Ninja superstars burst onto the scene.

So, who will make the Power Tower

and claim the fast pass to the Grand Finals?

Welcome back to Australian Ninja Warrior

where the colossal Power Tower waits for tonight's top two ninjas.

That's right, they'll go head to head for a stunning advantage,

straight through to the Grand Final, completely bypassing the Semis.

Straight through to the Grand Final, completely bypassing the Semis.

But, first, they need to conquer the course.

We just saw rookie Jimmy Burrow make it through to the end,

and I can sense Mount Midoriyama's red-hot fury.

And I can sense Mount Midoriyama's red-hot fury.

Luckily, our next ninja doesn't scare easily.

She's a 3-time Ninja veteran,

and tonight her mission is to hit her very first buzzer.

And tonight her mission is to hit her very first buzzer.

Put your hands together and make some noise for Tash Sergi.

I'm Tash Sergi from WA.

I'm 33 years old, a fit mother of two boys and I'm back.

I'm 33 years old, a fit mother of two boys and I'm back.

Mummy wants to go back on the Ninja Warrior, the show.

What do you guys reckon?

Yeah! Yeah!

My whole life, I've tackled adversity.

My whole life, I've tackled adversity.

I had ovarian cancer when I was 17.

I lost my ovary and fallopian tube, and I had chemotherapy.

So, last year, I was hit with some pretty heavy news.

So, last year, I was hit with some pretty heavy news.

I found out that I had a squamous cell carcinoma on my leg.

It was quite scary that I had quite an aggressive cancer on me.

I got it cut out and, thank God, we're all clear.

I got it cut out and, thank God, we're all clear.

Ever since then,

I have just been so obsessed with getting stronger and fitter.

Look at the upper-body strength. Working her way to the top.

Look at that determination, you can see.

Look at that determination, you can see.

Oh!

I missed out on the Semi-Finals by seconds

and that just ate me up for the whole rest of that year.

This year, I'm different.

I am fitter and stronger.

I...

I...

Check out these guns.

I am back and I am hungry.

(CHEERING)

Tash has been working toward this moment

every day for the past 12 months.

Every day for the past 12 months.

You can see how much she wants it.

Tash Sergi is a fighter.

Can she fight her way all the way and hit a buzzer?

(BUZZER TONE)

Here she comes.

Here she comes.

We've seen her before, Tash Sergi.

Can she make it to the top of the Warped Wall this year?

That's her goal, Ben.

She was here in Seasons 2, 3, 4.

Season 2, her first season, was the best.

She made the Semi-Final, then last year missed out just by 11 seconds.

She made the Semi-Final, then last year missed out just by 11 seconds.

Fourth time on Australian Ninja Warrior.

Can she hit the buzzer tonight?

She's concentrating on getting the right grip, the mixed grip,

She's concentrating on getting the right grip, the mixed grip,

and she's about to ride the dipper beautifully!

Tash Sergi, great start. Nice work.

Onto the Cyclone Spinner now.

Onto the Cyclone Spinner now.

Tash has extraordinary upper-body strength.

She'll need it here.

It's also about the feet.

Has she wedged them in far enough?

Gotta dig that other foot in.

It's not all the way in, just the toe.

It's not all the way in, just the toe.

Oh, she's starting to move.

She hasn't got the toe in there. She's fighting.

Oh, she's slipping out.

Tash is... oh, she was so close!

Oh, absolutely heartbreaking.

Oh, absolutely heartbreaking.

Oh, no, the toe, it was the toe.

The toe just wasn't in.

And that's all you need to do on that.

Well, Tash started strongly

with a perfectly executed lache onto the Pole Rider,

with a perfectly executed lache onto the Pole Rider,

but she didn't push her feet far enough

into the holes of the Cyclone Spinner

so, when the wheel picked up speed, she just couldn't hang on.

Tash, how are you feeling?

I know how much this means to you. It meant so much.

I... that was the only one I was worried about.

I have the worst hip mobility and I knew I was going to struggle

to get my hips into there, and I was gritting as hard as I could.

I really thought this was my year, I say it every year,

but, like, I just felt so good in my prep, and...

but, like, I just felt so good in my prep, and...

that's what threw me out tonight, mobility, not my strength, so...

That's what the course does.

Hey, thanks for being a part of it, good on you.

I really feel for Tash.

She's absolutely devastated.

She trained so hard for this.

She trained so hard for this.

But, if we know anything about her, she's not a quitter, she'll be back.

Next, he's a first-time ninja hoping to one day be a rocket scientist.

Next, he's a first-time ninja hoping to one day be a rocket scientist.

Ready to have a blast tonight, it is Dylan James.

I am an absolutely self-confessed science nerd.

I'm a 4th year engineering and physics student at UTS.

I'm a 4th year engineering and physics student at UTS.

I work in the labs, mainly.

I just sit in rooms and do maths, really.

When I was in year six, I actually wanted to be an astrophysicist.

When I was in year six, I actually wanted to be an astrophysicist.

I've been fascinated with the planets and the stars.

I'd always look up and I had my little telescope when I was younger.

Hopefully one day I'll end up as an actual rocket scientist

Hopefully one day I'll end up as an actual rocket scientist

working on rockets out on a space station.

I'm hoping to use my analytical mind to really break down obstacles

before I tackle them, and then execute the best way to do it.

He looks relaxed for a first timer.

The same can't be said for his crew on the sidelines,

parents Melanie and Rick, girlfriend Amber, buddies Lachie and Josh.

Parents Melanie and Rick, girlfriend Amber, buddies Lachie and Josh.

Let's go, Dylan!

Dylan James is the rocket man.

Let's see if he can send himself into orbit.

Dylan James, just 21 years of age.

First time on Australian Ninja Warrior,

First time on Australian Ninja Warrior,

and masters the Shrinking Steps.

Family pretty happy with that.

So should Dylan.

Nice to get the first one out of the way.

Big Dipper to Pole Rider.

Grabs the pole.

Grabs the pole.

Right up high.

Right up at the top of the pole.

A great space to land,

and now he gets ready for the tricky Cyclone Spinner.

You know what, Ben?

I reckon this obstacle is ideal for a scientist.

I reckon this obstacle is ideal for a scientist.

Dylan understands the physics involved in this one.

He knows he needs to stay super flat to the disc.

Come on, Dyl!

And that's what he appears to be doing.

And that's what he appears to be doing.

Hang on, Dylan.

Yes!

He's rocketed through the first part of the course.

What will he do here?

OK, there he goes at the Crossroads

OK, there he goes at the Crossroads

and he's chosen the known path, lane A.

That's the path Jimmy Burrow took to reach the buzzer.

Dylan watched Jimmy get to the end.

And not just get to the end, Ben, Jimmy set a cracking pace.

And not just get to the end, Ben, Jimmy set a cracking pace.

Path B is supposed to be the quicker option

but, as Jimmy proved with path A,

if you're good enough you're fast enough.

Well, Dylan's looking good.

Right now, watch how economical he is with his movements.

Right now, watch how economical he is with his movements.

He's so fluid.

Great control.

He's starting to use his swing.

Once again, not using a breath more energy than he needs to.

Now, the reach across.

Now, the reach across.

Gets it. Pauses for just a moment.

This bloke's a first-time ninja.

He is cool.

Nails the dismount.

Nails the dismount.

Could we see another newcomer conquer the course?

Get excited, everybody at home.

We could be seeing Dylan James on top of that Warped Wall very soon.

Dylan slightly slower than Jimmy Burrow, but not by much.

Dylan slightly slower than Jimmy Burrow, but not by much.

Not only do we have a brand-new ninja right here first time

but, at the moment, he could be heading to the Power Tower.

He's still gotta survive the Bar Hop first, Crawf, and, while

He's still gotta survive the Bar Hop first, Crawf, and, while

he looks relaxed out there, his upper-body muscles would be burning.

This is extraordinary.

A confident leap to the fixed bar.

He's making up time here.

He's making up time here.

He's also looking like a huge chance to get up the Warped Wall.

This is Dylan James' first crack at the Ninja course.

Just one lache away from the Warped Wall and that big red buzzer.

Just one lache away from the Warped Wall and that big red buzzer.

I can't believe it.

Another rookie ninja about to take on the Warped Wall.

Just the wall!

Here he goes, Dylan James straight up the Warped Wall.

He's done it!

He's done it!

Dylan James, welcome to Australian Ninja Warrior!

For the first time, gets his hand on that big red buzzer.

Give us a big celebration, Dylan.

How does that feel? Yes!

How does that feel? Yes!

Who knew a physics degree could take you so far?

Well, Dylan attacked the course like a veteran.

He didn't waste any energy on the Peg Board,

He didn't waste any energy on the Peg Board,

only swinging as far and as high as necessary.

And he was just as calm and focused on the Bar Hop.

Then, straight up the Warped Wall

like he's done it a hundred times before.

Like he's done it a hundred times before.

Well done, Dylan.

Hey, guess what?

What?

You just got the fastest time of the night.

Whoo-hoo! Put your hands together for him!

Whoo-hoo! Put your hands together for him!

Now, mate... Need a breather.

I gotta tell ya, we know nothing about you.

What's your story?

I'm from the Central Coast.

And I train a bit of Ninja up there,

And I train a bit of Ninja up there,

there's a Ninja gym I train at twice a week.

Got a bit of rock climbing, bit of gymnastics background.

Someone told me you want to be a rocket man.

Absolutely.

Well, you... Rocket man.

Well, you... Rocket man.

You have just launched yourself here at Australian Ninja Warrior.

Congratulations.

Go down and see your folks and your family and friends.

Well done.

Can you believe that?

Can you believe that?

A second rookie up the wall, this time in a blistering 2:19.

And right now Dylan and Jimmy Burrow

have the Power Tower to themselves.

This is shaping up as the night of the newcomers.

This is shaping up as the night of the newcomers.

Coming up, we uncover the next generation of Ninja superstars.

Can an Olympic and world champion conquer the mountain?

I've been to three Olympic Games.

My strategy is attack every obstacle on its merits.

My strategy is attack every obstacle on its merits.

Pole vaulter Steve Hooker puts his reputation on the line.

And some Ninja favourites set their sights on Power Tower glory.

Tonight's top two furthest fastest ninjas

will face off on the all-new Power Tower for a fast pass

will face off on the all-new Power Tower for a fast pass

straight through to the Grand Final, all thanks to Energizer.

Welcome back to Australian Ninja Warrior where, so far, two ninjas

Welcome back to Australian Ninja Warrior where, so far, two ninjas

have made it to the top of the Warped Wall,

Jimmy Burrow and Dylan James.

And they didn't just beat the course,

they did it in their first attempt at lightning speed.

They did it in their first attempt at lightning speed.

What a way to announce their arrival in this competition.

And what a way to rile up an already very angry Mount Midoriyama.

Our next ninja would love to follow Jimmy and Dylan up the Warped Wall.

She's a 3-time competitor, State of Origin representative

and a former Semi-Finalist, but she's never hit the buzzer.

And a former Semi-Finalist, but she's never hit the buzzer.

One of our shortest and lightest ninjas, it's Skye Haddy.

I'm Skye Haddy, I'm 29 years old from the Gold Coast.

I was a gymnast growing up.

I've done a bit of cheerleading.

I performed in the circus for a few years overseas.

So, last year, I was really surprised with how I did.

I made it into the Semis,

and then the State of Origin was an amazing series.

Style, look at the momentum, she's done brilliantly, Skye Haddy.

Style, look at the momentum, she's done brilliantly, Skye Haddy.

And then after that was probably the trademark moment for me.

I jumped to the Spider Wall.

Arms went out, legs went out, feet touched, hands didn't reach

and I did this dramatic flip into the water.

And I did this dramatic flip into the water.

Oh, no! Oh!

So, since last season,

I have been trying to stretch as much as I can

to make my arms a little bit longer

to try to get this little body through the big course.

To try to get this little body through the big course.

I can make it through.

As long as I can physically reach, I can make it through.

And Skye is supported tonight by her partner, Michael,

sister Jade and her parents, Andrew and Karen.

Sister Jade and her parents, Andrew and Karen.

(BUZZER TONE)

Will she go sky high in 2021?

Skye Haddy is off to a dash.

Skye Haddy was certainly a breakout star last year.

Skye Haddy was certainly a breakout star last year.

She stormed into the Semi-Finals, and she wants to back it up this year.

She blitzed the Shrinking Steps.

Skye is a former gymnast and a circus performer,

Skye is a former gymnast and a circus performer,

so the Big Dipper to Pole Rider should play to her strengths.

This is yours, come on!

Making sure her grip is perfect.

You want to be straight on.

Yes, Skye!

Yes, Skye!

Here she goes, flinging herself.

Great grab. Yes, that's beautiful.

Look how high she caught that pole rider.

That's just beautiful.

Let's go, girl!

OK, she needs to back it up on the Cyclone Spinner.

OK, she needs to back it up on the Cyclone Spinner.

Last year, she discovered

her limbs weren't long enough for the Spider Wall.

Are they long enough for the Cyclone Spinner?

Well, Crawf, she's just 153.5cm tall.

Well, Crawf, she's just 153.5cm tall.

Lucky for her we're not asking her to hold the edges of the disc.

Keep it nice and tight.

Oh, she is.

As it goes, hold on there, Skye! Well done!

As it goes, hold on there, Skye! Well done!

And she just steps off.

She's gotta be dizzy after that, surely.

Like jumping off a bus.

Here she goes.

A or B, what will it be? A or B?

A or B, what will it be? A or B?

She's going A, it's the known path for Skye Haddy.

Wise choice.

These are obstacles that we have seen before.

Now, interestingly, they're very high.

Now, interestingly, they're very high.

Luckily, the swinging Peg Board comes with a rope.

You can see her stretching out the arms there.

She's only 50kg so she doesn't have to hold up a lot of weight.

Her challenge will be whether she's got the reach.

There's a long way between those peg boards.

The disadvantage being small on Ninja Warrior

is that some of these obstacles require a big wingspan.

Is that some of these obstacles require a big wingspan.

However, that's a very good swing

from the first rope, and she sets it up nicely.

Skye might be small but she's strong.

She's got one hand on one peg at this stage.

She's got one hand on one peg at this stage.

Now she moves a second hand on.

(BEC INHALES SHARPLY)

She's got the rope between her legs as a security blanket.

That hand position doesn't look comfortable.

We'll find out soon if it's effective.

She's starting her swing.

Generating momentum.

She reaches out now.

Oh! Yes.

Oh, no!

Oh, no!

I thought that might trouble Skye Haddy.

That is a really big ask for someone of her stature,

for that wingspan to stretch out like that.

That's where you see someone like Ben Polson do it so easily.

That's where you see someone like Ben Polson do it so easily.

For the shorter ninjas like Skye Haddy, that's a really tough ask.

Good job, though.

She may, indeed, have done enough to make it through to the Semi-Finals.

Still smiling.

Still smiling.

Skye was acing the course until she reached the swinging Peg Board.

Given her limited wingspan, she needed to generate a big swing

before transitioning to the second board.

It just wasn't enough.

It just wasn't enough.

She only caught the next peg by her fingertips,

and that's it for Skye Haddy.

Bad luck.

Hey, that was amazing.

You were like a contortionist up there.

You were like a contortionist up there.

Did you get yourself a little bit stuck

or was that the way you wanted to attack it?

I thought I had that grip and I was on my fingertips and I was like,

"Just hold on, just hold on," and it just... ugh, this damn wingspan.

"Just hold on, just hold on," and it just... ugh, this damn wingspan.

Thanks for putting on a wonderful show.

Oh, thank you. Skye Haddy!

Getting up that Warped Wall and hitting the buzzer

is every ninja's dream

is every ninja's dream

and, like Skye, they keep coming back year after year.

Up now, we have another Ninja favourite,

a dual Semi-Finalist and former professional rugby league player.

Just have a look at this bloke, Eloni Vunakece.

Just have a look at this bloke, Eloni Vunakece.

My name is Eloni Vunakece.

I'm 33 years old.

I'm 33 years old.

And I'm your average, general everyday garbageman.

Blue-collar worker.

I'm up at 3:30 every morning and I'm the one holding up traffic,

I'm up at 3:30 every morning and I'm the one holding up traffic,

but trying my hardest to clear the streets

as quickly and as efficiently as I can.

I am up there with the heaviest ninjas

that have run the course in Australian history.

That have run the course in Australian history.

Got about 20kg on most of them.

He's a heavy bloke. He's gonna weigh down that tick-tock. Will he do it?

It probably has contributed to me falling.

Oh! No!

Oh! No!

I'm back for a crack at redemption.

I want to get a buzzer.

This season, I've tried to trim down a little bit on the scales.

Every little one percent counts.

I'm a harsh taskmaster on myself,

and I haven't yet achieved what I would like to.

I want to get a buzzer and get up the wall for myself and my kids,

and, yeah, bit of redemption.

This man lives and breathes Ninja,

but he's never made it up the Warped Wall.

Maybe shredding six kilos will give him the edge to hit that buzzer.

His gorgeous family there on the sidelines to see him do just that.

His gorgeous family there on the sidelines to see him do just that.

Go, Dad!

I mean, come on.

Have a look at this bloke.

This is just getting silly now, isn't it?

It's like...

..something from another world.

..something from another world.

Oh!

A world of perfection.

Go, Dad!

Eloni, hey, this is a good family man.

He's big, he's strong and I can't wait to see him run down the course.

He's big, he's strong and I can't wait to see him run down the course.

Former professional rugby league player.

Here he comes, Eloni Vunakece.

Look out, he's got a lot of weight to get across those steps.

Look how quick he's going.

Look how quick he's going.

Really quick this year.

Slammed into the landing platform there, but he just powers on.

OK, here he is on the Big Dipper to Pole Rider.

This'll be hard because of his weight, Ben.

Watch closely.

The first part will be OK.

The first part will be OK.

It's the second part.

No problem. Oh, well done.

I've never seen him move so quick.

That six kilos he lost is making a big difference.

Now, this is gonna be a little tricky.

Now, this is gonna be a little tricky.

He's our heaviest ninja, 105kg.

Locks himself in. Oh, no.

Oh, no, he's wrestling it.

Oh, his body's coming away. He can't hang on, surely.

How has he not come off? This bloke...

How has he not come off? This bloke...

Eloni, Eloni, you legend!

I've never seen anything like it.

And now he's going path A.

Is this man human?

It looked like he'd separated himself

It looked like he'd separated himself

so far from the Cyclone Spinner

there was no way he could get back on.

He has incredible strength to save that moment not once but twice.

He has incredible strength to save that moment not once but twice.

Let's not jinx him.

The next two obstacles are a real test.

Go, Dad!

Because of his size, he needs

a superhuman amount of upper-body strength to hold himself up.

A superhuman amount of upper-body strength to hold himself up.

That's what's let him down in previous seasons.

Well, he's moving the pegs cleanly, one and the next.

So far, so good, Ben.

He's just starting to get that swing on now.

He's gonna reach out for the second... ooh, grabs it.

Oh, what's he doing?

He's grasped the single peg with two hands.

Surely he can't jump from there!

Surely he can't jump from there!

Oh, Eloni! Oh, that is insane.

What did we just witness?

The raw physicality Eloni's displaying is next level this year.

This is it.

This is it.

He is just one obstacle away from his dream of taking on the Warped Wall.

This is the biggest ninja we've got.

He is magnificent, strong and he's still going.

He's only five seconds behind Dylan James right now.

He's only five seconds behind Dylan James right now.

So focused.

I'm telling you, that bar looks like

it's almost going to bend and snap under the weight and sheer muscle.

Oh, he holds it. Remember, he weighs 105kg.

Oh, he holds it. Remember, he weighs 105kg.

Oh, my goodness me.

And, off the back of that previous obstacle, he's gotta be hurting now.

Good, good, good!

Good, good, good!

Oh, that was the crucial catch.

Oh!

Oh, no!

Just at the very last minute,

Eloni Vunakece finds himself in the pool,

Eloni Vunakece finds himself in the pool,

and he was literally metres away

from his dream of going up the Warped Wall.

Oh!

He did well but he'll be shattered.

Eloni relied on raw muscle to get through the Cyclone Spinner.

Eloni relied on raw muscle to get through the Cyclone Spinner.

In an extraordinary display of strength and sheer will,

he slowed the wheel down when his body shifted out of position.

But fatigue set in on the Bar Hop.

But fatigue set in on the Bar Hop.

Eloni negotiated the first four bars smoothly,

but just didn't have enough grip strength left

for the final transfer.

Eloni, Eloni, you are a superstar.

Eloni, Eloni, you are a superstar.

Hey?

You've never hit a buzzer before. Never.

I know that...

This close, one swing, one swing, mate.

One swing. That's all it is. That's all it is, mate.

One swing. That's all it is. That's all it is, mate.

What's wrong with ya?

The Ninja Warrior course normally suits lighter people

as they're working their way through.

How do you get such a big, strong body all the way?

You wrestled the Cyclone Spinner, which I've never seen...

You wrestled the Cyclone Spinner, which I've never seen...

Had to spin that back a few times, eh?

Well, I don't think the Cyclone Spinner

wants to be a part of Ninja Warrior.

I was trying to break it for everyone else.

I just want to get a buzzer this year.

I need to beat this wall.

I need to beat this wall.

I still... it's been three seasons

and I still haven't beat it, so, till next time, I guess.

One swing closer, mate, one swing closer this time.

Eloni Vunakece. Thanks so much. Thanks, Crawf.

Is he human or is he machine?

Is he human or is he machine?

Well done, congratulations.

Eloni Vunakece.

Well, he is a machine but, once again,

he's fallen just short of Warped Wall glory.

Hopefully, he's done enough to make it into the Semi-Finals

Hopefully, he's done enough to make it into the Semi-Finals

so he can have another crack.

Still to come, Mount Midoriyama unleashes hell.

Who has what it takes to conquer the course

Who has what it takes to conquer the course

as Irish Ninja Paul Culloty makes his bid for the Power Tower?

As the Irish say, we're here for a good time, not a long time.

Welcome back to Australian Ninja Warrior.

Welcome back to Australian Ninja Warrior.

It is the final heat before the Semi-Finals,

a time when our ninjas traditionally take it up a notch.

So far, the two standout runs of the night

belong to two superstar newcomers, Dylan James and Jungle Jimmy Burrow.

Belong to two superstar newcomers, Dylan James and Jungle Jimmy Burrow.

But Mount Midoriyama was always going to strike back,

and, during the break, some unsuspecting rookies paid the price.

37-year-old Brazilian personal trainer Ana Coppola

37-year-old Brazilian personal trainer Ana Coppola

brought some colour and cha-cha-cha to the Ninja course.

Brr-ya!

But Ana's carnivale was over on the first obstacle.

But Ana's carnivale was over on the first obstacle.

I think the entrance might have been better than the actual performance.

Plumber Matthew Petrovski shocked everyone by turning up on time.

Here he goes.

Here he goes.

But, despite his super-slick moves and flashy shoes,

he couldn't quite get the job done.

(KLAXON BLARES)

21-year-old George Mountakis trained for months for his Ninja debut,

21-year-old George Mountakis trained for months for his Ninja debut,

but it was grandma Ya-Ya who stole the show.

OK, Ya-Ya, come on.

Here he goes. Makes a little jump.

Jump onto the... Oh, boy!

Oh, no.

Oh, no.

It's a na-na for the Ya-Ya.

Then sometime-opal-prospector and quarry-rock-crusher David Bowd

bulldozed his way through the course but the first time ninja made

bulldozed his way through the course but the first time ninja made

a rookie error on the rope, failing to generate swing from the platform.

He thinks it's a bungee rope. It's getting very stressful.

What's he doing?

What's he doing?

With no momentum, David dangled at the end of the rope

for an energy-depleting 42 seconds.

He had to fight that rope like no-one else.

When he finally transitioned to the monkey bar

he had nothing left in the tank and got a dunking.

He had nothing left in the tank and got a dunking.

So, Dylan James and Jimmy Burrow are

still showing everyone how it's done.

They're not only dominating the competition tonight,

They're not only dominating the competition tonight,

their times are right up there with the ninja legends.

So far the rest of the field has wiped out short of the buzzer

but maybe our next ninja can press the Warped Wall.

But maybe our next ninja can press the Warped Wall.

BEN: After a taste of Ninja last year,

this surf photographer decided to build his own ninja gym

in his carport.

From Perth, here's Chris White.

From Perth, here's Chris White.

My name is Chris White.

I'm 41 years old and I'm from Perth.

Last year was my first time doing Ninja.

Last year was my first time doing Ninja.

In my heats I had the world famous Kelly Slater Skyped in, watching.

It may be so nervous.

Four years ago Kelly Slater had famously saved my son Van in Hawaii.

Four years ago Kelly Slater had famously saved my son Van in Hawaii.

He'd got swept across a road in a pram from a freak wave.

It was a scary situation but I'm so glad Kelly was there.

Last year in the semis I got all the way through to the Slingshot.

Last year in the semis I got all the way through to the Slingshot.

It's these bungee cords that bounce down

and then I came off on the Slingshot.

After coming so close, when I got

After coming so close, when I got

back to Perth I built my home course under my carport.

I've actually even run a competition.

All the ninjas from around Australia have come in from far and wide.

Tash is now the furthest. Nice, Tash.

Tash is now the furthest. Nice, Tash.

So we made sort of an event out of it.

Returning this series, I just want to give my best effort

for my sons to show them like, if you fall, you get back up again.

For my sons to show them like, if you fall, you get back up again.

Ninja Warrior is a big challenge.

I want to get up the Warped Wall, hit the buzzer, and make them proud.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

And riding the wave with Chris tonight,

wife Sarah and sons 13-year-old Jet and six-year-old Van.

So, we love Chris White being back

So, we love Chris White being back

on Australian Ninja Warrior but this bloke is a package deal.

You don't get one without the other. And that's good news.

In the big screen tonight,

Chris's lifelong friend and surfing legend, Kelly Slater.

Chris's lifelong friend and surfing legend, Kelly Slater.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE) Kelly Slater!

Hey, how are you guys?

We are great. Great to see you. Chris did really well last year.

Do you think he can go even better this year?

Yeah, I think that's going to focus him.

Yeah, I think that's going to focus him.

A little slip up last year on the course

but I think he'll be a bit more focused this year.

He's ready to go.

Alright, let's give him a go.

That is a lot of pressure. Kelly Slater tuning in to watch your run.

That is a lot of pressure. Kelly Slater tuning in to watch your run.

(STARTER BELL RINGS) Come on, Chris.

OK. Good momentum. Well-balanced. No dramas.

Oh, wow.

Chris White came off on the Slingshot in the semi-finals

Chris White came off on the Slingshot in the semi-finals

last year so he won't be making any silly mistakes tonight.

He is trim and he is tough.

Yeah, come on. Whoa!

Look at him. Great work, Chris.

Look at him. Great work, Chris.

What about the speed?

Remember, the time he's chasing here

for a shot at the Power Tower is 2:22.

Slow.

I'm guessing Chris doesn't have one of these under his carport

in Perth but Chris is oh so fit.

In Perth but Chris is oh so fit.

Look at his back muscles, Ben. Yes I am, Bec.

The core is fine on this obstacle.

So is his strong stomach.

He's got the wobbly boot. He needs to pull themselves together here.

He's at the crossroads.

Now he has chosen Lane A. This is the known path.

It makes sense.

The two ninjas who have made it up the Warped Wall tonight

The two ninjas who have made it up the Warped Wall tonight

both chose Path A.

He looks like is going well, Kelly. He does.

He is super focused, you can see it in his eyes.

Onto the swinging Peg Board.

This is the obstacle that took out Skye Haddy a little earlier.

This is the obstacle that took out Skye Haddy a little earlier.

Chris cannot underestimate this.

The stress on the arms is huge.

This is always a difficult transition

from the rope to the first peg.

From the rope to the first peg.

Grabs it. You've got to let go of that rope.

(CROWD GASPS)

(CHUCKLES) He's got the peg in finally.

Still got the rope though.

It looks loose, that peg.

It looks loose, that peg.

Again Chris needs two attempts to slot it in.

He recovers. That's going to drain some energy.

Now, Kelly Slater knows a thing or two about competition so Kelly,

Now, Kelly Slater knows a thing or two about competition so Kelly,

just evaluate him for us.

How's he going at the moment based on where you are sitting?

He looks awesome. He looks really strong.

This is going to be a tough transition here I think.

You're a good commentator, Kelly. Keep on going.

You're a good commentator, Kelly. Keep on going.

(LAUGHTER)

But swinging like that after your

arms are burning is a whole different thing.

Look at that though.

We've gotta say from our view here, Kelly, he is looking so strong.

We've gotta say from our view here, Kelly, he is looking so strong.

Wow. Lands it.

Now it's the Bar Hop.

This is cruel though, Kelly, because there are two obstacles

back to back which is really going to test your upper body strength.

Back to back which is really going to test your upper body strength.

Has he got it in him?

I think that Peg Board is going to burn the arms out a bit

so he's probably taking a little breather here.

He is relying on Kelly Slater from the side-lines.

He is relying on Kelly Slater from the side-lines.

Take a bit of a breather. Those peg boards can really tire you out.

Chris is really hurting now. Smiling through the pain.

His arms are burning no doubt.

His arms are burning no doubt.

And he's going to be calling on those same upper body muscles

to get him across this Bar Hop.

Big, deep breath.

Shakes out the hands.

He has worked hard for this. He's 41 years of age.

He has worked hard for this. He's 41 years of age.

And just one obstacle away from the Warped Wall.

He's practising exactly what he's going to execute.

OK, let's get behind him. Come on. (CHEERING)

Let's get behind him.

Chris White, the 41-year-old from Perth

Chris White, the 41-year-old from Perth

is about to take on the Bar Hop and this is an upper body burner.

Up onto that first bar.

Starting to get his swing on.

The question is, does he have enough

petrol left in the tank after that last obstacle?

Answer, yes. Well done.

Now he will go to the bar that's fixed.

Wow.

Wow.

OK. One bar is in the water but that doesn't matter.

Yes, makes that.

Oh, he is looking really good at this stage.

Kicks the legs up.

He's got plenty left. Yes, he's done it!

Perfect to the end.

Perfect to the end.

He just needs the safety of the mat.

Oh! Yes, he has made it!

He only cleared it by an inch but he cleared it.

Come on, Chris. (CHEERING)

He takes a little bit of a breather here. Understandable.

He takes a little bit of a breather here. Understandable.

Remember the Warped Wall is 10cm higher this year.

Come on, Chris.

He pumps himself up. He wants it.

He can see the red buzzer. ALL: Ooh!

He just had a little bit of a stumble there.

He just had a little bit of a stumble there.

He has got two shots left.

Can he do it?

CROWD (CHANTING): Beat the wall! Beat the wall! Beat the wall!

Here he comes. Chris White on his second attempt.

Here he comes. Chris White on his second attempt.

He's got it!

Yes, yes, yes! (CHEERING)

(KLAXON SOUNDS) How about that, Kelly Slater?

How good was that!

Chris barrelled through the first three obstacles but he used up a lot

of energy negotiating the swinging Peg Board and then the Bar Hop.

Of energy negotiating the swinging Peg Board and then the Bar Hop.

As a result he needed two attempts to

get up to the top of the Warped Wall and hit that buzzer.

Mate. Oh, Chris.

Mate. Oh, Chris.

Mate, you've put so much work in.

On the serious side of things, just

explain the focus, the commitment that you've made.

Yeah, I've done a lot of training.

Fell off last year.

Fell off last year.

Want to show my kids, go back, pick yourself up,

try hard and you can do whatever you want.

Well, it has worked for you. Oh, Chris, awesome job, man.

You looked really good. That was awesome.

You looked really good. That was awesome.

It is great to have Kelly here as well.

Put your hands together for Kelly Slater

for joining us and the big applause of course for Chris White.

He is on top of the Warped Wall on Australian Ninja Warrior.

He is on top of the Warped Wall on Australian Ninja Warrior.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE) Soak it up, mate.

You've impressed an 11-time world champion.

The kids look pretty happy too.

I can hear Mount Midoriyama rumbling

as Chris becomes the third ninja tonight to get up the Warped Wall.

As Chris becomes the third ninja tonight to get up the Warped Wall.

But right now it is still newcomers Dylan James and Jungle Jimmy Burrow

who are headed for the Power Tower.

We're here from Sydney Olympic Stadium

We're here from Sydney Olympic Stadium

and we come back to you right after this.

Ahead on Australian Ninja Warrior...

The fight back is on as some big names hit the course.

The Rat Daddy is back.

The Rat Daddy is back.

Will Irish eyes smile on the cattle truck driver Paul Culloty?

And can Tradie Ninja Sam Goodall nail a spot on the Power Tower?

And can Tradie Ninja Sam Goodall nail a spot on the Power Tower?

This time it's gotta be clean, it's gotta be fast.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

BEN: Welcome back to the fourth and final heat

of Australian Ninja Warrior

where an incredible three ninjas have made it up the Warped Wall

so far tonight.

So far tonight.

What's more, the two fastest are new to the competition.

REBECCA: And I can tell you now, Ben, Mount Midoriyama is not happy.

During the break Season 4 standout Eddie 'The Buzzer' Burrill

During the break Season 4 standout Eddie 'The Buzzer' Burrill

looked for all the world like he was headed to the Power Tower.

The Big Dipper to Pole Rider.

Eddie is flying. Eddie is in a hurry.

He reached the Bar Hop

He reached the Bar Hop

almost 10 seconds faster than heat leader Dylan James.

Nice.

Oh, no! Oh, yeah.

Our instinct was right. He was going too hard, too fast.

Our instinct was right. He was going too hard, too fast.

Eddie set the benchmark and his fiancee pole vaulter Lisa Campbell

set out to beat it.

Look at her go. In and out.

Where does all that strength come from?

Lisa became the first woman tonight to make it through to obstacle five.

Lisa became the first woman tonight to make it through to obstacle five.

Oh, no!

But she was destined not to beat her partner's run.

Oh, the same spot!

No!

No!

Ultra competitive brothers Kayle and Brayden Goldring

had their sights set firmly on a one-two finish in their Ninja debut.

But when Brayden crashed out of the competition early...

But when Brayden crashed out of the competition early...

it was left to little brother Kayle to fly the family flag.

Kayle flashed through the course at Power Tower pace

but he couldn't land that tricky third honeycomb.

He is disappointed he missed out on the buzzer

but Kayle's run puts him in fifth position on the leaderboard.

But Kayle's run puts him in fifth position on the leaderboard.

And on target for the semis.

We're just past the halfway point and already three

ninjas have smashed this course, including two very speedy newcomers.

The time to beat to get on the Power Tower, a sizzling 2:22.

(CHEERING)

Dylan James and Jimmy Burrow might be

green to this competition but no-one is as green as our next competitor.

Green to this competition but no-one is as green as our next competitor.

The most unexpected of ninja heroes last year,

Townsville's Irish cattle truck driver is back for more.

Here he is, Paul Culloty! (CHEERING)

Oh, we love him, the Irish Ninja.

He thinks is on the set of Riverdance.

I might be a returning ninja...

I might be a returning ninja...

My name is Paul Culloty. I'm from Townsville.

Originally from Ireland and you know me as the Irish cattle truck driver.

Having fun living the dream every day.

Having fun living the dream every day.

(TRUCK HORN BLARES)

My family is forever growing with a little one in the oven again.

That'll be another mouth to feed for us.

And we're away.

And we're away.

Last year I went out like a bull in a china shop.

I was about as unprepared as you come, you know.

To be honest, I gassed out in the heat so quick.

I attacked it.

My head basically fell off.

I didn't know what I was doing but I gave it a go.

I can enjoy a few cold ones tonight, that's for sure anyway.

When I got through to the semi-finals

I was actually a bit more focused.

He is going to smash this out. He's gonna go all the way.

He is going to smash this out. He's gonna go all the way.

Oh, no! Oh!

No way!

The fact that I got through to the semis and I didn't hit the buzzer,

it wasn't the same.

It wasn't the same.

I couldn't let the opportunity go again.

I really want that buzzer so bad.

I've visualised it so much and if I get the buzzer

I'll be just absolutely ecstatic.

If you guys put a beer at the top of the Warped Wall

I'd be straight up it, there be no dramas.

(CHEERING)

Now, I may not understand what our next ninja may say

Now, I may not understand what our next ninja may say

but I do understand that he loves a beer and he'll do anything for it.

Ahh, a quick kiss for the family - partner Aleisha

and their gorgeous one-year-old daughter Kora.

And Paul is good to go. Go you sexy thing! Whoo!

And Paul is good to go. Go you sexy thing! Whoo!

(STARTER BELL RINGS)

Well, didn't he gather a cult following

when he burst onto the Ninja scene last year?

Obstacle one done and the crowd lifts.

They'd love to see him on the Power Tower.

Last year he made such an impact here on Australian Ninja Warrior.

We all love the Irish cattle truck driver from Townsville.

We all love the Irish cattle truck driver from Townsville.

And we'd love to see him on the Power Tower.

The time to beat, 2:22. Here he goes.

He's got it. Yeah!

Oh, he's looking better this year already. I can tell.

I think the thing that everyone loved about him

apart from that vibrant personality is the fact that

Paul Culloty did all of his training on the side of a cattle truck.

He's a no-frills kind of guy.

The question is, did he have a Cyclone Spinner

The question is, did he have a Cyclone Spinner

stuck to the side of his truck?

Doubt it. Let's see how he handles this one.

Put your bum in. He is not very close to the board.

This is not the way you ride the Cyclone Spinner.

This is not the way you ride the Cyclone Spinner.

His hips are stuck out too much. Hold on!

Oh, he's not gonna do it, unbelievably.

I didn't think he did but what amazing strength.

Here he is at the crossroads, Paul.

Here he is at the crossroads, Paul.

Which way is he gonna go?

He's gone A.

Yeah, he has gone the safe choice.

The three ninjas who've made it to the top of the Warped Wall tonight

The three ninjas who've made it to the top of the Warped Wall tonight

all went Path A.

The Irish Ninja wants to join them

and I've got a feeling he is going to.

He looks like a joker but he takes this very seriously.

Here he goes onto the swinging Peg Board.

Here he goes onto the swinging Peg Board.

Up on the rope.

And now onto the first peg board any moment now.

He's got that rope tucked between his knees.

And he's going to have to let go of it at some point.

And he's going to have to let go of it at some point.

It's like a security blanket. He starts to move along.

He's got great natural strength. He's looking good, Crawf.

That's it.

Good work! This is good!

And now he would be hurting but this

And now he would be hurting but this

is the moment of truth, the big transfer.

Paul reaches out and grabs a hold of the next board.

He's doing well but he has missed out on a Power Tower spot.

2:22 was the time to beat.

2:22 was the time to beat.

I think he's going to take a leaf out of Eloni Vunakece's book.

Gripping the first peg with both hands.

Oh, I don't know whether that's gonna work for him.

It looks awkward. Go!

He'll try another strategy here if he needs to.

He'll try another strategy here if he needs to.

OK so, he's moving one hand back now to get more of a swing.

I hope it's got some strength left. Come on, Paul!

(CHEERING)

Just makes the safety mat. Just.

Just makes the safety mat. Just.

Has a quick hello and a kiss to his wife and daughter on the side-lines.

He is just one obstacle away from the Warped Wall

but the Bar Hop will call on

but the Bar Hop will call on

exactly the same muscles that are burning right now.

Come on, babe!

You've got it!

Up he goes.

Now Paul Culloty attempting to become

just the fourth ninja tonight to hit the buzzer.

Just the fourth ninja tonight to hit the buzzer.

He switches to the mixed grip.

Look at the strain on the arms.

Oh! He makes the first jump.

Yes! This is good. Come on!

Reaching across now for the fixed bar.

That first bar drops into the water. That's OK.

Paul hasn't gone with it, that's OK.

He's not going to have much left in the tank right now.

His upper body muscles must be screaming.

His upper body muscles must be screaming.

Can he get there?

Here he goes. He transfers to that uneven bar.

Raw strength.

Not long to go now, two more leaps.

Come on, Paul Culloty!

Yes! Oh, this is good.

A little bit more.

Aleisha loves it, Kora loves it.

(EVERYONE GASPS)

Made it by centimetres and now Paul Culloty has a big run at the Wall.

Made it by centimetres and now Paul Culloty has a big run at the Wall.

(ALEISHA SQUEALS)

Yes, he's done it! He hangs on.

Paul Culloty, for the first time ever...

(KLAXON SOUNDS)

..gets his hands on that big red buzzer.

..gets his hands on that big red buzzer.

The Irish trucker from Queensland. Well done!

Mate, you are incredible.

You're not fast enough for the Power Tower

but we reckon you're headed to the semis for sure.

But we reckon you're headed to the semis for sure.

Oh, Paul, how good is that feeling?

Absolutely electrifying.

Oh, my god!

OK, let's just have a look at this.

Have a look at the replay, mate,

Have a look at the replay, mate,

because I know what the Warped Wall means to you.

Here you go. And look at this.

Just describe the feeling when you gripped it.

Oh, just!

I just got it and I was like there's

no way I'm letting go of this, that's for sure.

No way I'm letting go of this, that's for sure.

Put your hands together for Paul Culloty.

(CHEERING)

So, Paul Culloty becomes the fourth ninja

So, Paul Culloty becomes the fourth ninja

to make it up the Warped Wall tonight.

But has the Irish ninja done enough to put himself in contention

for the Power Tower and that golden ticket to the grand final?

Well, looking at the leaderboard,

Dylan James and Jungle Jimmy Burrow are still way out in front.

They absolutely streaked through the course.

Can anyone stop their drive to the Power Tower?

Can anyone stop their drive to the Power Tower?

(CHEERING)

We'll have more thrills and spills on the other side of this.

You are watching Australian Ninja Warrior.

Coming up...

We've saved some of the best till last

and they're primed and ready to go.

Tradie Ninja Sam Goodall,

two-time grand finalist Zed Colback,

two-time grand finalist Zed Colback,

Jake 'Rat Daddy' Baker,

plus Olympic pole vaulter Steve Hooker makes his tilt at Ninja gold.

My aspirations are to see how far I can go.

(THEME MUSIC)

(CHEERING)

Welcome back to Australian Ninja Warrior

where our ninjas are finally turning the tables on Mount Midoriyama.

Where our ninjas are finally turning the tables on Mount Midoriyama.

REBECCA: We've had four ninjas hit the buzzer so far tonight

but the big story is the performance

of two newcomers, Dylan James and Jimmy Burrow.

Of two newcomers, Dylan James and Jimmy Burrow.

They not only hit the buzzer on their debuts,

they did it in two of the fastest times of the heats.

And if ever a first timer was destined

to join them on the top of the Warped Wall,

to join them on the top of the Warped Wall,

it's our next competitor.

We have all been waiting for this moment on Australian Ninja Warrior.

We love gold medallists and they're few and far between.

And we've got the best here tonight.

And we've got the best here tonight.

Letters and gentlemen, it is Steve Hooker!

(CHEERING)

Yes, Steve Hooker reached the dizzy heights of Olympic glory.

Can he conquer the Ninja Warrior course?

Can he conquer the Ninja Warrior course?

Hi, I'm Steve Hooker.

I'm 38 years old

and I'm probably best known as an Olympic gold medallist pole vaulter.

And I'm probably best known as an Olympic gold medallist pole vaulter.

I started pole vaulting when I was 15 years old.

I was the first Australian male

field athlete to win a gold medal at the Olympic Games in 60 years.

I won with a height of 5m and 96cm

I won with a height of 5m and 96cm

and that set an Olympic record at the time.

Got broken in London and Rio but at the time I had it for four years.

I came from a sport where you get three goes at every height.

I came from a sport where you get three goes at every height.

I mean, at the Olympic Games, five separate occasions

I jumped the bar on my third attempt.

In Ninja, one mistake and it's all over.

I'm training so hard to be able to compete with the other ninjas.

I'm training so hard to be able to compete with the other ninjas.

I want to hit a buzzer so badly.

My drive as a top athlete

inspired me to not be afraid to try new things.

So let's give it a go.

So let's give it a go.

(CHEERING)

BEN: What a legend, Steve Hooker.

He may have an Olympic gold medal

but he's got space on the mantelpiece for some more bling.

But he's got space on the mantelpiece for some more bling.

(STARTER BELL RINGS)

REBECCA: Let's see how the former world champion

and Olympic gold medallist goes tonight.

Steve Hooker, welcome to Australian Ninja Warrior.

Coordination not a problem, timing not a problem.

Now, he's grabbing onto the bar. He is an Olympic gold medallist.

He knows how to hold on tight.

Onto the Big Dipper and Pole Rider

Onto the Big Dipper and Pole Rider

and the long arms and legs will make it look easy, hopefully.

Yes. Yes.

And what about his resume?

Olympic champion, world champion,

Commonwealth champion, and world indoor champion,

Commonwealth champion, and world indoor champion,

and World Cup champion simultaneously, if you don't mind.

The key word being champion.

An Olympic gold medallist putting everything on the line.

The Cyclone Spinner is tricky for our bigger, taller ninjas.

He gives the wheel a shove to get it going.

He's got a good grip but he's a big lad.

Can he hang onto the big frame, Steve Hooker?

Can he hang onto the big frame, Steve Hooker?

Oh, no! (BUZZER BLARES)

No, no. It has cost him.

It can't! It has cost him.

It can't be happening. No!

Steve Hooker has been training for months.

Steve Hooker has been training for months.

He took this competition so seriously

and it was just a little error.

I mean, he had it.

Let's take a look at what went wrong for Steve on the Cyclone Spinner.

Let's take a look at what went wrong for Steve on the Cyclone Spinner.

You can see you started out with his hips very low

so to get the wheel to spin he had to throw his weight up.

Well, that put him off balance and with

every rotation his hips jutted further away from the wheel.

Every rotation his hips jutted further away from the wheel.

Eventually the speed and force of the Spinner was too much and

Steve's feet shot out just before he reached the safety of the platform.

(CHEERING)

Steve, you're looking shocked, mate.

I'm shattered. That's devastating.

I was told this was a tall person killer and it killed me.

So that's the way it goes.

It has been an absolute honour

It has been an absolute honour

having an Olympic gold medallist here

and I'm sure it's not the last time we'll see you

want to be a part of Australian Ninja Warrior.

Please put your hands together for a legend, Steven Hooker!

Please put your hands together for a legend, Steven Hooker!

Mount Midoriyama pays no heed to resumes and reputation,

so how will our next competitor fair?

This Dungeons & Dragons master from

Victoria blew us away, scaling the Warped Wall last year.

Jake Baker.

The Rat Dad's back.

The Rat Dad's back.

Now those pasty peacekeepers, something is not right about them.

Dungeons & Dragons is a board game like no other.

You role play, you talk about the world.

You role play, you talk about the world.

Creativity is greatly encouraged.

Griswold who is not with us,

managed absolutely destroy a daemonic chicken.

It was great.

Last year on Ninja Warrior I got through to the semi-finals,

Last year on Ninja Warrior I got through to the semi-finals,

crashed but was fast enough to make it through to the grand final.

Making it to the grand final was amazing.

I fell out on the Shelf Grab.

I fell out on the Shelf Grab.

I didn't expect that.

On paper I'm not the best ninja.

My CV doesn't include rock-climbing medals and Olympic attempts.

My CV doesn't include rock-climbing medals and Olympic attempts.

As a guy who has rats and who plays Dungeons & Dragons,

I think I might get underestimated.

Ratalie, are you looking forward to cheering me on?

Tonight I'm going to do the rats proud and scurry up that Wall.

Tonight I'm going to do the rats proud and scurry up that Wall.

(CHEERING)

Now sadly, Jake's pet rats

couldn't be here with us tonight

but we have arranged for them to join us live via the big screen.

But we have arranged for them to join us live via the big screen.

Say g'day to Ratalie Portman and Naudrey Hepburn.

(CHEERING)

Oh, isn't that cute?

The rats have got their own Warped Wall.

(STARTER BELL CHIMES) OK, Jake.

The Rat Man, will he get the cheese?

Good start.

Good start.

A time quicker than 2:22 will put him on the Power Tower.

Big Dipper to Pole Rider now. Looking good, Jake Baker.

Picking up where he left off last year.

Making sure of his grip.

Now he's flying onto the pole.

Yes, nice work.

Now the Cyclone Spinner.

The rats have got something like this as they train back home.

Now, his friends tell me he can do a 360 up a Warped Wall

Now, his friends tell me he can do a 360 up a Warped Wall

so if you gets there tonight he may just deliver that.

So far so good. Good foot placement.

Plenty of upper body strength.

Plenty of upper body strength.

Spinning and rolling and rumbling and holding on.

Well done. And the rats are loving it!

The geek has just outperformed an Olympic champ.

The geek has just outperformed an Olympic champ.

He is only one second off the Power Tower pace.

He's having a stretch of his hamstrings just as he makes his way

to the crossroads.

Which way is he gonna go?

(CHEERING) Going the new obstacles.

He's here for an adventure.

Interesting choice.

He wants a crack at these two newcomers

at the top of the leaderboard.

He wants a spot on the Power Tower, a ticket to the grand final.

He wants a spot on the Power Tower, a ticket to the grand final.

He's going the fast track.

Remember, he's chasing Jimmy's time of 2:22.

This obstacle requires a lot of strength.

Oh!

Just missed it, that second bar.

Just missed it, that second bar.

That is a rare mistake for Jake Baker.

He has recovered though.

Gets it the second time.

Now, for a less experienced ninja,

something like that would put them off their game.

Oh, look at this, this is impressive stuff from Jake Baker.

Oh, look at this, this is impressive stuff from Jake Baker.

Really good from Jake Baker as he gets that last one.

Swings. Oh!

Another small error but he got away with it.

OK, this is where it gets tough.

OK, this is where it gets tough.

That little balk on the dismount just then

could be a sign of fatigue.

That's not good news going into the Beehive.

Those who have chosen Path B tonight

have come a cropper on this obstacle.

Have come a cropper on this obstacle.

OK, hanging on that first beehive now, just getting the momentum.

Really skilful.

To get so high with their legs and their knees takes so much strength.

Makes the transfer. Lands it. (CHEERING)

Makes the transfer. Lands it. (CHEERING)

He has lost time on that last obstacle

but now he's making up for it.

And this is where it gets really nerve-racking.

It's not in a straight line.

You've got to make a move

You've got to make a move

and a transfer and he does it!

Sticks it. Wow!

Jake Baker, sensational.

Here he goes. (CHEERING)

Now he has just missed out on the Power Tower at 2:22.

Now he has just missed out on the Power Tower at 2:22.

But can he still finish?

CROWD (CHANTING): Beat the Wall, beat the Wall, beat the Wall!

Jake Baker, the Rat Man.

Can he get up the Wall first go?

Here he comes.

Here he comes.

(CHEERING)

Up he goes. Backwards. 360. What was that!

He did it! (KLAXON SOUNDS)

Unbelievable. Jake Baker putting on a show in Season 5.

Unbelievable. Jake Baker putting on a show in Season 5.

Wow!

What was that!

A little secret trick I've been developing.

I'm glad I got it though.

He made the grand final last season and on the strength of that run,

He made the grand final last season and on the strength of that run,

we could very well be seeing Jake Baker at the end again this year.

He showed signs of fatigue on Weight For It but he powered

He showed signs of fatigue on Weight For It but he powered

through to become the first ninja tonight to conquer the Beehive.

Then that 360 at the top of the Warped Wall.

What a star! (CHEERING)

A brilliant run from Jake Baker and what a fight back from our ninjas.

That's five now who have made it up the Warped Wall. Incredible.

Just look at the leaderboard.

The new ninjas are still at the top of the Ninja pack.

The new ninjas are still at the top of the Ninja pack.

They're in the box seat for a shot

at that express pass to the grand final.

But they're not on the Power Tower yet.

We've still got some big name ninjas warming up backstage.

We've still got some big name ninjas warming up backstage.

We'll have more thrills and spills on the other side of this.

You are watching Australian Ninja Warrior.

Coming up...

The rookies have held off all challengers so far

but in a heat that has unearthed a new generation of superstars,

it's time to bring out some big guns.

They are going to be smashed.

Mount Midoriyama is seething

as some of our fiercest competitors plot the ultimate ninja fight back.

As some of our fiercest competitors plot the ultimate ninja fight back.

(THEME MUSIC)

(CHEERING)

BEN: Welcome back to Australia Ninja Warrior where all eyes are on the

Power Tower and that chance to win an express pass to the grand final.

Power Tower and that chance to win an express pass to the grand final.

REBECCA: A couple of rookies are in the box seat

and during the break ninja after ninja stepped up

hoping to knock them off their perch.

New ninja and new father, Cameron McLintock.

New ninja and new father, Cameron McLintock.

Oh! Oh, look at Logan.

..proving eight hours' sleep is way overrated.

He bolted through the course.

He is dizzy, just like his head would be, he's just had a baby.

He is dizzy, just like his head would be, he's just had a baby.

He's going the path unknown.

Cameron flew through the Beehive.

This is the difficult one but he has gripped it.

He's done it. Oh, my goodness.

And left us in no doubt that our

And left us in no doubt that our

newest crop of ninjas are here to play.

Cameron McLintock, go you good thing.

Then two-time grand finalist Alex Bigg returned

to the Ninja course and picked up right where he left off last year.

He powered through the first three obstacles.

And he hangs on. Well done, Alex.

What will he do here?

What will he do here?

He has gone straight for B. Why? Because he's the Big Ninja.

But the bigger they are the bigger they splash.

Oh, he missed it. That's why it's such a challenge.

Two-time grand finalist, Zed Colback

had the Power Tower front and centre of his mind

as he hurtled through the course.

Oh, all in one motion. Incredible!

Get out of there. Big push!

Zed's brother-in-law, Tradie Ninja, Sam Goodall,

urged him on from the side-lines.

Run, run, run, go!

Whoo!

Can you believe it, he is on top of the Warped Wall.

He's our seventh ninja to hit the buzzer tonight.

Unbelievable! Yeah!

He might not have made the Power Tower

but the ninja fight back is strong.

So, with just one ninja still to compete,

rocket man and physicist Dylan James

has booked his spot on the Power Tower.

Has booked his spot on the Power Tower.

Fellow rookie, Jungle Jimmy Burrow is in second

so he has a nervous wait to find out if he has done enough.

(CHEERING)

That's right, Ben, there is just one ninja

That's right, Ben, there is just one ninja

left to run tonight and he is one of this competition's all-time greats.

Sam Goodall's resume speaks for itself.

Four grand final appearances

Four grand final appearances

and a thrilling Power Tower win last year.

One of our most beloved ninjas.

Every year this guy gives us a surprise moment.

It is the Tradie Ninja, our hero from WA. He's back.

It is the Tradie Ninja, our hero from WA. He's back.

Give it up for Sam Goodall.

Oh!

Sam Goodall here.

You know me as the Tradie Ninja.

In Series one I was the scrappy guy

In Series one I was the scrappy guy

who liked to smack his head on things.

Ooh!

Then I was bleeding and just got through.

Season two I built Midoriyama in the backyard.

That really helped with my training.

Whoo-hoo!

But I had Ross River Fever.

Sam Goodall, I think he's struggling here.

Have a rest. Honey!

Physically took me to a real low

and you saw that on the course when I passed out.

Babe, you've got to sit down. He's buckling at his knees.

FREDDIE: Just looks absolutely shattered.

Season three, health is good.

Season three, health is good.

After a year recovering, the Tradie Ninja is back.

But I'm slowing down, I'm wasting time, I'm angry.

He's got four seconds left, three seconds, two seconds,

He's got four seconds left, three seconds, two seconds,

one second... (BUZZER BLARES)

Sadly he's not going to get there.

Season four I gained some speed but I noticed all the other ninjas

were getting faster and stronger and I wasn't getting any better.

Were getting faster and stronger and I wasn't getting any better.

Oh, no, he's in the water.

So season five, my training has gone through the roof.

Endurance has peaked.

Endurance has peaked.

I've gotten heaps faster this year.

I just want to be on top of that Power Tower again and make it

straight through to the grand final.

(CHEERING)

REBECCA: Can Sam Goodall

knock Jimmy Burrow out of Power Tower contention?

Wife Rachel certainly thinks so.

Watching on with their gorgeous new baby Delie.

Bec, well done for matching Sam's outfit tonight.

Bec, well done for matching Sam's outfit tonight.

I'm on Tradie Ninja team.

You can see that. Here he goes.

The Tradie Ninja through obstacle one.

I've got Sam Goodall

getting up the Warped Wall in a record time tonight.

Getting up the Warped Wall in a record time tonight.

He's going to get a spot on the Power Tower.

Yeah, the time he needs to beat is 2:22.

Right now he's on target.

But there are a lot of obstacles still to go.

His brother-in-law Zed is willing him on from the sideline.

His brother-in-law Zed is willing him on from the sideline.

He's already in the semis.

OK, Cyclone Spinner.

The Tradie Ninja, he's on a mission.

Locks himself in, pushes hard, here he goes.

Eugh, I'm getting dizzy just trying to look at that.

Eugh, I'm getting dizzy just trying to look at that.

He's got such a professional approach, Sam Goodall.

Not the most graceful dismount. He spins out of that one.

Sam always worries us. He falls over a lot.

Sam always worries us. He falls over a lot.

But he is now at the crossroads.

Three seconds slower than Jimmy Burrow.

And just like Jimmy he's going Path A.

He likes his chances.

He reckons he can chase Jimmy down.

He reckons he can chase Jimmy down.

He has the Power Tower in his sights.

I tell you what, this time it's

going to be incredible if he can get all the way.

He is on the swinging Peg Board.

He is using his feet on the rope to

help him move one peg right to the end of the board.

Help him move one peg right to the end of the board.

Careful. (EVERYONE GASPS)

He just mistimed that.

And he threw the second peg into the water.

He makes a grab for the rope to steady himself.

He makes a grab for the rope to steady himself.

That was close.

He must have so much strength in that one hand.

What concerns me right now is how much time he lost just then.

Sam Goodall can't afford any more

mistakes if he wants to beat Jimmy Burrow's time.

Mistakes if he wants to beat Jimmy Burrow's time.

He's chasing 2:22.

He's got enough momentum to get off now.

Off he goes, Sam. Surely.

Sam, you could have gone. He's struggling a bit.

Sam, you could have gone. He's struggling a bit.

He's agonising. Absolutely struggling.

Come on, Sam, don't do this to us.

Oh! Yes.

Lucky. Very lucky, Sam.

Well, he has lost some valuable seconds on that last obstacle.

Well, he has lost some valuable seconds on that last obstacle.

Come on, Sam. You've got this, bro.

He's about 18 seconds behind Jimmy Burrow's pace now.

He needs to make up that time on the next two obstacles.

He needs to make up that time on the next two obstacles.

And the Bar Hop, will it play to his strengths?

Up he goes now.

It all comes down to how much he's got left

after the swinging Peg Board.

Jimmy slowed right down on this obstacle

Jimmy slowed right down on this obstacle

so it is going to be close.

Oh, that transfer wasn't graceful but no time lost.

He's got to use everything here.

It has really taken a lot out of him, the Peg Board.

This does not look pretty but he's making up a little bit of time.

This does not look pretty but he's making up a little bit of time.

I'm not sure it's gonna be enough though.

He's only got one more lift to go. Look at the time.

Not going to make the Power Tower tonight.

And he does it. Yeah, the Bar Hop done and dusted.

And he does it. Yeah, the Bar Hop done and dusted.

Racing around the corner.

And look at him go, straight up the Warped Wall.

(KLAXON SOUNDS) (CHEERING)

He hits the buzzer.

He is the eighth ninja to do it tonight.

He is the eighth ninja to do it tonight.

And look at the time.

It just misses out on the Power Tower only by six seconds.

But he is in the semi. What a run from Sam Goodall.

How are you feeling?

As usual, graceful, pretty work.

As usual, graceful, pretty work.

(LAUGHTER) All of that.

But no, I thought I was in the water a few times there

but it came good in the end.

Well done, Sam. Sam Goodall. Let's give him a roar.

Well done, Sam. Sam Goodall. Let's give him a roar.

Sam hit his stride quickly but he

did run into a bit of trouble on the swinging Peg Board.

He jettisoned one peg on the first board

He jettisoned one peg on the first board

and had to use the rope to build momentum to swing to the second.

He had to dig really deep to get through the Bar Hop

but once that was out of the way,

getting to the top of the Warped Wall was just a formality.

Getting to the top of the Warped Wall was just a formality.

(CHEERING)

So, there it is, the last run of our heats for 2021.

So, there it is, the last run of our heats for 2021.

What a way to finish, Bec. Oh, incredible, Ben.

Newbie ninjas have certainly made their mark and new stars were born.

So, for the final time tonight,

let's see how the leaderboard looks

and who is going to be going on the Power Tower.

And who is going to be going on the Power Tower.

And the brightest stars of all,

rocket man and physicist Dylan James and Jungle Jimmy Burrow,

they recorded the furthest fastest times

they recorded the furthest fastest times

and they're headed for the Power Tower.

Irish truck driver Paul Culloty finished sixth,

one of eight to hit a buzzer tonight.

It was a big effort from the big man Eloni Vunakece finishing 13th.

And Jack's back. What an inspirational run from Jack Wilson.

He finishes 16th and he is through to the semi-finals.

He finishes 16th and he is through to the semi-finals.

(CHEERING)

BEN: Well done, Dylan. Well done, Jimmy.

So, who is going to hit the buzzer first and go

straight to the grand final?

Straight to the grand final?

It is a massive advantage

and someone is going to grab it right after the break.

(CHEERING)

BEN: Welcome back to Australian Ninja Warrior

BEN: Welcome back to Australian Ninja Warrior

where two Ninja newbies

have just taken their field by storm P Dylan James and Jimmy Burrow.

Two rookies. They're about to battle it out on the Power Tower.

They delivered some of the fastest times in the heats.

They delivered some of the fastest times in the heats.

What else can they do? Let's find out.

This is going to be massive

and remember that all-important advantage.

Whoever hits that buzzer first on top of the Power Tower will

Whoever hits that buzzer first on top of the Power Tower will

catapult themselves straight into the grand final.

Yep, they bypass the semi-finals altogether.

Are we ready, Ben? Ready to roll.

And head-to-head it's hard to separate these two.

And head-to-head it's hard to separate these two.

Dylan is 6kg heavier but he was

also more than three seconds faster over the course.

As newcomers to the competition, neither of these guys

has faced the Power Tower before so anything could happen.

And just take a look at what looms. The mighty Power Tower.

A 20m sprint is followed by a mad scramble up five giant steps.

A 20m sprint is followed by a mad scramble up five giant steps.

Ninjas then leap more than 2m onto a fire pole.

Once they slide down the pole they must

negotiate a series of floating steps before shimmying back to the top.

Negotiate a series of floating steps before shimmying back to the top.

Then it's a lache across the dropping shelves

and on to the buzzer.

(KLAXON SOUNDS)

(CHEERING)

Get a load of this.

Get a load of this.

Two brand-new ninjas who blitzed the course tonight.

I'm talking about rocket man Dylan James

up against Jungle Jimmy Burrow.

Head-to-head on the Power Tower.

Head-to-head on the Power Tower.

This is going to be huge.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

Here we go. Dylan and Jimmy.

The rocket man Dylan James and Jungle Jimmy Burrow.

(STARTER BELL CHIMES)

Off they go. They bolt towards the steps.

1.3m up each step. There are five of them to deal with.

Up they go. Dylan pops over first.

Up they go. Dylan pops over first.

Down the fire pole. A little bit hesitant on that.

Almost neck-and-neck at the moment.

Getting onto the Floating Steps.

These brand-new ninjas are doing pretty well.

Jimmy grabs the lead as they cross onto the Steps.

Jimmy grabs the lead as they cross onto the Steps.

He's first on the pole.

Dylan just behind him. They're scrambling.

And up the poles they go. Dylan and Jimmy neck-and-neck.

Brand-new ninjas and the lead changes again.

Now Dylan is a rat's whisker ahead.

Now Dylan is a rat's whisker ahead.

Come on, guys, it means so much. Push!

They're both on the first shelf, a hand on the second shelf.

Now who's going to hit the third first?

It's Jimmy. Oh, it's close!

It's Jimmy. Oh, it's close!

Now here comes Dylan. It's close. Who's gonna be?

No-one is game to get off.

Jimmy's got it. He's there!

(KLAXON BLARES) Jungle Jimmy hits the buzzer.

Dylan just behind him.

And what about this.

And what about this.

This young bloke has had an obstacle course like this Power Tower set up

in his living room and now he is here on the real thing.

And he blitzes it.

That was so damn close.

What a race we had there between two brand-new ninjas.

What a race we had there between two brand-new ninjas.

Never been on the Power Tower before. They knew what it meant.

It's a fast pass to the grand final

Australian Ninja Warrior Season 5.

Australian Ninja Warrior Season 5.

Well done, Jungle Jimmy.

Well, races don't get much closer than that.

Jimmy and Dylan were neck-and-neck right after the dropping shelves.

Jimmy and Dylan were neck-and-neck right after the dropping shelves.

Dylan lached through the obstacle

while Jimmy chose to shimmy to the side of each shelf and reach across.

Jimmy's technique proved faster and while his dismount

Jimmy's technique proved faster and while his dismount

was a little awkward,

it didn't stop him from reaching that buzzer first.

(CHEERING)

Jungle Jimmy Burrow. Congratulations. What a race.

Jungle Jimmy Burrow. Congratulations. What a race.

You were behind and then got yourself in front.

Yep. He's a tough contester.

It was neck-and-neck pretty much the whole way

and then I don't know what happened

I just happened to get that lucky grab and hit the buzzer.

I just happened to get that lucky grab and hit the buzzer.

The good news with winning the Power Tower,

don't worry about the semi-finals.

Put your hands together for Jimmy Burrow,

he is going straight to the grand finals of Australian Ninja Warrior.

He is going straight to the grand finals of Australian Ninja Warrior.

Well done.

How good was that.

Jimmy Burrow, brand-new to the competition,

takes his place alongside ninja royalty Charlie Robbins,

Ashlin Herbert,

Ashlin Herbert,

and Bryson Klein.

They're all going straight through to the grand finals.

But before we get to that, it's the semis of course.

So make sure you join us tomorrow night from Sydney Olympic Park

So make sure you join us tomorrow night from Sydney Olympic Park

for the first of our semi-finals.

Good night, everyone. Good night.

NARRATOR: Finally...

REBECCA: What was that?

REBECCA: What was that?

BEN: And there comes the roar.

..what all of Australia's been waiting for...

(DEEP GROWL) It's the Dragon back P

one of the coolest obstacles we've ever seen.

One of the coolest obstacles we've ever seen.

Oh, no!

The g-force hits like a tonne of bricks!

(TRIUMPHANT MUSIC) ..in a Finals showdown.

Yes! One of the few ninjas to do it!

Yes! One of the few ninjas to do it!

Who will slay the dragon?

He's in trouble!

(FLAMES ROAR) Yeah!

The toughest obstacle in Ninja history.

This crowd has erupted!

Finals Fever ignites...

Finals Fever ignites...