There is a sporting competition unlike any other. It features some of the best-conditioned athletes in the world. Participants come from all over the world to compete in this event, held twice a year in Japan. It is among the most thrilling spectacles of strength, speed, and endurance ever displayed.

You’ve probably never even heard of it, much less seen it.

Ninja Warrior is the name given to the challenging obstacle course located in Mt. Midoryama, Japan. The constantly evolving course is divided into four increasingly demanding stages. The first stage is a timed trial requiring speed and strength. Contestants must navigate the course by jumping, climbing, and running through the obstacles without falling into the ubiquitous waters of Mt. Midoryama.

One hundred contestants begin the tournament each year. Typically, less than ten will survive the perilous first stage. One of the defining characteristics that separate Ninja Warrior from other sports is the overwhelming odds against anyone winning the game. In the ten years that Ninja Warrior has been challenging athletes to compete for Total Victory, only two men have ever successfully completed all four stages.

The second stage is also a timed race against the clock, but speed is really secondary to strength as the athletes must climb and lift their way to victory. One of the few constants as the course has evolved over the years is the Lifting Walls at the end of stage two. After defeating all other obstacles on the course, contestants must lift and pass under three walls of 66, 80, and 110 pounds to reach the finish line.

A typical contest might see two to four contestants reach the third stage. Speed is no longer a consideration, as this level is untimed and is all about strength and endurance. More often than not, the third stage eliminates all contenders and the mountain stands victorious for another six months. Sometimes one (or rarely, two) contestant will reach the final stage, which is a timed ascent up a seventy-five foot rope to the top of a tower. Almost always, the fatigue of the first three stages combined with the severity of the final stage leaves the contestant defeated and gasping for air short of the summit.

Next week – more on this incredible sport, plus a look at the only athletic competition that’s even better than Ninja Warrior!

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