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Charity LeBlanc’s new calm mindset just cleared her a path to the Semifinals

For the first time in three seasons, the Mermaid Ninja moves on to the extended course.

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Elizabeth Morris/NBC

It’s hard to miss Charity LeBlanc when she’s on the course. With her vibrant hair and serious mermaid vibes, she’s snagged the audience’s attention in both seasons 10 and 11. However, back for her third time in season 13, Charity had the chance to get our attention for her skills when she put together a run that advanced her to the Semifinals.

“This year has been the most different for me from any other year. I honestly feel the most calm I’ve ever felt. I’m really enjoying the process this time around,” Charity shared with us regarding her return to the show.

During her run, Charity stayed calm during what was a moment of panic for the viewers. On her dismount from Air Surfer, Charity landed on the very edge of the safety mat. Her toe dangled just inches from the water. She pitched herself forward to safety and moved into the Semifinals for the first time in three seasons.

“I just realized I’ve put in a lot of hard work in the last couple of years,” Charity said about her new mindset. “I’ve kind of allowed myself to feel it. You’ve got this. You should feel confident. You should feel proud of yourself. I think that was a mental change for me.”

With Air Surfer behind her, Charity set her sights on the fifth obstacle, Pretzel Twist. Unfortunately, her run would end before she really had a chance to test herself on that challenge.

“My least favorite obstacle was probably the one I fell on. It had a tramp jump. I’ve been working really hard on those but I still couldn’t make that jump. It was a bummer for me because I really wanted to be able to do that this year.”

Elizabeth Morris/NBC

But with the Qualifiers behind her, Charity is ready to take her confidence forward into the extended course.

“I feel like I’ve always been physically strong and capable. But I think that having that mindset that I am able to do it, not think that I possibly could, but knowing I’m able, was a big switch for me. I feel really good. I feel really calm. I want to keep that calmness. I know the nerves are going to kick in as soon as I see the course. I’m feeling good. I’m excited to be here.”