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American Ninja Warrior is painstakingly close to kicking off the filming of season 13. As the Ninjas prepare to head to Seattle/Tacoma for the Qualifying rounds, we’re busy thinking about what might be this year. Our conclusion is that this season is poised to make all kinds of history.
With what we know about the season’s format, here are four things that we very well could see happen in 2021.
The youngest National Finalists ever
The inclusion of athletes ages 15-18 means that season 13’s National Finals might include the youngest competitors we’ve ever seen. We know these kids have to skills to get there. Could we even see them take on the later stages? Is there champion potential in the group?
Multiple women on Stage Two
To this point, only one woman at a time has cleared Stage One of the National Finals. Jessie Graff did it in season eight. Allyssa Beird did it in season nine. Season 13 is ripe with the potential to send multiple women to Stage Two. Jesse Labreck and Michelle Warnky-Buurma are definitely two Ninjas on the case, and we’re confident in the abilities of so many more.
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A woman up the Mega Wall
Speaking of the women, we see possibilities in the Mega Wall’s new rules for season 13. The women are simply talented enough to get the 18-foot wall done this year. In season 13, competitors will have one shot at the Mega Wall and then two shots at the Warped Wall if needed. Previously, it was one shot at each wall. We think the change could entice more women to try the Mega Wall.
If a woman was on the fence between attempting the Mega Wall or going for the sure-shot buzzer, there’s a bit more confidence to play with now. Trying the Mega Wall can sap enough energy to throw a Ninja off-course on the Warped Wall. Now, take your shot at the Mega Wall. If it doesn’t work out, you’ll have two chances to reset your body, grab a breath, and get that buzzer.
Update: Season 13 will use the Mega Wall’s original rules.
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A winner and a champion
Daniel Gil came out on top in season 12. He was declared the year’s winner after making the top eight and winning his heats in the Power Tower relay. But we’re pretty sure the fans see a difference between winning season 12 and becoming an American Ninja Warrior Champion. (Even Daniel Gil acknowledges the difference.)
The only way to become a champion is to beat all four stages at the National Finals. Daniel came close in season 11. He was the winner of season 12. If he takes season 13, Daniel would be the first winner and champion of American Ninja Warrior.
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What other historical moments might we see in season 13? Share your thoughts below.