28 of our favorite photos from season 12

Together, these moments help tell the story of the season

By Nikki Lee@anwnation Feb 11, 2021, 12:22pm PST

Season 12 of American Ninja Warrior is far behind us at this point. Looking back with more perspective now illustrates the importance of certain moments. The photos from the season highlight both the big and small instances that shaped the outcome of the year. We went back through the photo galleries and gathered together a few of our favorite moments from 2020 season.

You may have seen these before. Some may be new to you. Together, they tell the story of a remarkable year.

All of the photos below are credited to Elizabeth Morris/NBC.

There’s strength in even the low moments on the course.

Pauline Avila, an ICU nurse in a COVID-19 unit, steps to the starting line.

Ashley McConville reacts with delight and surprise at her first buzzer.

Jessica Clayton kneels and raises a fist while wearing her “Ninjas for Black Lives” shirt.

Michelle Warnky Buurma takes a moment for prayer before her run.

Brian Kretsch waves to his family, who are watching on the virtual sideline.

Joe Moravsky holds up a note from his children that he carried on the course.

Matt Iseman and Akbar Gbajabiamila smile and laugh with a contestant.

Amir Malik looks down the course in awe.

Adam Rayl battles through The Dungeon.

Jonathon Horton takes the first step of his run.

A crew member dries and cleans the obstacles between runs.

Donovan Metoyer sizes up the Warped Wall just before his 360-degree twist.

Zuri Hall works with a producer to film her course introductions.

Zuri sends some support to a Ninja who’s fallen into the pool.

Daniel Gil illustrates how close the Ninjas can be to falling at any moment.

A reminder of the precautions taken to make season 12 possible.

Najee Richardson looks to the camera before beginning a new obstacle.

Jessie Graff sprints into the Warped Wall.

Chris DiGangi watches his fiancé, Jesse Labreck on the course.

Jeri D’Aurelio, Allyssa Beird, and Jon Alexis Jr. cheer on Jesse Labreck.

Jesse Labreck sends love to her supporters after completing the Finals course.

Jeri D’Aurelio beams during her run.

The season’s trophy awaits an owner.

Members of the top eight await the start of the Power Tower playoffs.

Jesse Labreck congratulates Daniel Gil on his win after their race.

Daniel Gil collects himself after racing Adam Rayl.

Daniel Gil takes a moment to admire the trophy and his status as the year’s winner.