Original subtitles

BEN: Over the past three weeks,

200 of Australia's best everyday athletes

tested themselves on the toughest course on the planet.

FREDDIE: Oh, my word! He's putting a show on!

REBECCA: He is flying!

Heroes have emerged.

Unbelievable!

How good was that? (LAUGHTER)

The greatest save in history! Yeah!

Dreams have become reality.

MAN: Life-defining moment.

Favourites have fallen.

Oh, no! That is the biggest shock of Australian Ninja Warrior.

Listen to the crowd. Everyone is stunned.

Others have stood taller than ever before.

You are a superstar!

Now the grand finals,

and only the best of the best remain.

Over two epic nights, the new breed of ninjas...

I'm just proper stoked to be here.

Plan tonight a bit like a hole in one.

Beat that timer and hit that buzzer.

..take on seasoned superstars.

I believe I can go all the way.

I was standing below Mount Midoriyama before,

and I know I can do it.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC BUILDS)

30 ninjas are left.

One is guaranteed to walk away with $100,000

as our furthest fastest winner...

..but will anyone climb their way to the top of the mountain

and claim the $300,000

and the title of Australia's first Ninja Warrior?

(TRIUMPHANT MUSIC)

Welcome to Australian Ninja Warrior. I'm Rebecca Maddern.

I'm Ben Fordham. And I'm Freddie Flintoff.

Well, it's here - it's grand final week,

with the 30 best ninjas in the country

vying to be the last person standing

to win that incredible prize of $100,000.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

There is no question every competitor tonight believes

they have what it takes to go all the way.

Every time they arrive on the course, every time they warm up,

every time they run, Mount Midoriyama is there,

looming over them,

a potent reminder of their ultimate goal.

And if anyone can reach that ultimate goal,

they'll walk away with a life-changing $300,000.

With big money on the line,

you can feel the nerves down in the warm-up area.

So, tonight there are no weak links, you know?

It's 30 of the best ninjas in Australia.

MAN: You know, your Fred Dorrington, Rob Patterson,

Bryson Klein, Ashlin.

MAN: Been a long road, a long journey to get to this point.

So, I'm hoping to just bring all the fury

and push through to that stage two grand final.

I think I've shown I've got what it takes to be the last ninja standing.

I believe in myself. I believe I can go all the way.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC BUILDS)

REBECCA: For the grand finals,

the full might of the toughest obstacle course on the planet

is opened up.

20 obstacles over three

incredibly difficult stages.

Tonight is stage one.

Get through that, and tomorrow night,

stages two and three await.

Get through those,

and they have earned their shot at the holy grail,

Mount Midoriyama.

So, let's have a look at tonight's stage one.

Nine incredibly challenging obstacles

that must be completed in three minutes, 15 seconds.

It starts with the two rotating Archer Steps,

but this time it's a leap to safety.

There's no rope to grab.

The Propeller is new.

A massive three-metre bounce up from the tramp

to the rotating Propeller, and then down to safety.

The much-feared Spinning Log is back.

Six-metres end to end.

One misstep and it's game over.

Finger strength is tested on the Swinging Cliff Hanger.

Just the barest ledge to hold on to

as ninjas traverse two suspended blocks.

Next, the Wing Nuts,

a difficult sideways lache.

It's even taken out the likes of Ashlin Herbert.

Then the familiar Warped Wall

before three even tougher obstacles await.

They'll have never have seen the Hinge.

With little to grip on the vertical boards,

ninjas must make their way across four hanging panels.

Second last is the dangerous Spider Jump.

Then, with all energy spent and the clock ticking down,

the final obstacle is the eight-metre Chimney Sweep.

There are heavy doors at the top as the last challenge,

but beat the clock, push the buzzer, and stage one is done,

with stage two and three awaiting tomorrow.

Righto, let's bring it on.

Grand final stage one - a minimum $100,000 on the line,

and if they make it all the way up Mount Midoriyama, $300,000.

Our first ninja is an absolute rocket.

He has no fear as he charges headlong through the course,

and tonight it'll be crash, or crash through.

From Tully, in Far North Queensland, Justin Flegler.

Holy shit, grand final. What the hell?

(MOMENTOUS MUSIC)

The pride of North Queensland.

Justin's mission is to put his home town on the map.

Here we are in Tully, best place in the world,

on top of the great Golden Gumboot!

ALL: Up the river!

Ready? Get ready.

Steady? Go!

With the support of his family, and the whole town behind him...

Grand final!

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

..this 28-year-old wildcard has thrown caution to the wind so far.

BEN: He's like a little Jack Russell!

But he'll need more than pace tonight.

I know I've got speed on my side.

It's just gonna be a mental game to try and slow down where I need to,

and smash that buzzer at the end.

It's finish or bust for Justin Flegler.

Can you imagine the pubs up in Far North Queensland right now?

Full to the brim!

Justin finished tenth in his semi

to just scrape through

to the grand final.

And have a look at Dad. He's a real character, Graham.

We love Graham.

And that's his mum, Christina, and partner, Rachel,

who made it here for the grand final.

There are nine obstacles in front of him,

and only 3:15 on the clock.

(CHIME SOUNDS)

I've no worries about his speed, or about his technique.

Look at him go! Look at that for a jump!

Wow! One down. Next up, the Propeller.

This is a tricky one.

It's three metres off the trampoline, onto the Propeller.

Hangs it!

Oh, that is skill! Pure skill! Oh, he gets off it as well.

From the Propeller to the rope, and he's done it. What a start!

(LAUGHS)

And he is looking great,

and Graham is riding every bump of this course with his son, Justin.

Two down in 20 seconds, and now the Spinning Log.

One mistake and you are gone.

Yes!

Oh, Justin!

Flegler does it in a breeze!

Well, this is the boy who grew up on the sugar cane farm in Tully,

in Far North Queensland,

and have a look at him now on national television

halfway through the Australian Ninja Warrior course.

The Swinging Cliff Hanger.

He's onto the first panel

and now he'll transition to the second.

It's all about upper body strength and timing on the dismount,

and Justin Flegler looks, oh, so good!

(WHOOPS)

Just about a minute gone on the clock now,

and these are tough obstacles, Ben.

Make no mistake.

Justin won't have seen anything like these, but he is flying.

Yeah, that's right.

Chin-ups on the farm - that's about the extent of the training.

And now the Wing Nuts. Wing Nut number one.

Look at the swing he's got going on.

Great transfer onto the second Nut.

Has to start the swing again.

The clock is ticking. Look at it. Needs to get on to the third.

One more! Come on, Justin Flegler!

Yes! Lands it!

Now, the dismount. He's gotta get going.

He's got four more obstacles to go, with 1:43 on the clock.

Next, the Warped Wall.

CROWD: Beat the wall! Beat the wall!

Missed his first attempt up the Warped Wall in the semifinals.

Not making the same mistake this time. Straight up.

But I've gotta tell you, only 1:30 left on the clock.

I said he was fast,

but time is gonna play a factor, as he approaches the Hinge.

Now, this one is brand-new.

You've got to make your way across four vertical panels.

It's all about keeping leverage with the feet and the hands.

Slowing down a little bit, but onto the first one.

If he doesn't complete these next three obstacles in 1:05 from now,

he'll be out.

It's gonna be tough. It's gonna be really tough.

Oh, he almost slips! He hangs on!

How did he hang on, Bec?

Pure determination, Ben, I'd reckon.

Works his way around the third panel

to face a big jump up to the fourth.

Come on, Justin!

A big leap of faith required here.

Oh, no! No! Slipping, slipping!

No! Justin Flegler!

He can't do it. He's slipping! This is like a slow death!

He's gone!

Justin Flegler, it was just too much for him to hang on.

He did such a great job, but in the end,

those hands just could not hold on to that panel any longer!

Oh, that was so painful to watch.

It was a slow death for Justin, wasn't it?

Yeah, this obstacle is going to test plenty tonight.

Justin's one of the fastest ninjas,

but was struggling against the clock.

His feet missed the panel

and there was just not enough grip to hang on to.

Justin, you came here with no ninja experience

and here you are in the grand finals.

I get the sense that you're happy with this.

Oh, stoked.

Can't believe it. Come all this way. Here I am.

You got a bit of a bump on your head. What you been doing?

On my head and my arm.

Wow, you've really put your body on the line here.

Yeah, you gotta do what you gotta do, but it's all worth it.

Justin, absolute pleasure. Go and sort your head out, lad.

Cheers, mate.

Well, Justin Flegler,

I reckon he's done Far North Queensland really proud.

Oh, he had, but how tough is this course?

Justin's lightning fast,

but he had only 40 seconds left on the clock,

with three obstacles still to go.

So, who can beat it?

Let's see next.

From a newbie ninja to a grand final veteran,

he's as tough as they come.

After a year recovering from Ross River virus,

the 'Tradie Ninja' is back.

From Albany, in WA, make some noise for Sam Goodall.

This time last year,

Sam's grand final came to an end

because of Ross River fever.

Sam Goodall, I think he's struggling here.

Babe! Have a rest! Honey?!

Absolutely shattered.

Go and see Daddy!

WOMAN: What's he doing? Show me.

SAM: I thought I'd sort of recover in a couple of weeks,

but unfortunately, Ross River virus sticks around.

(LAUGHS) He's asleep.

Some days you really even struggle to get out of bed.

Mmm, what are you doing? Ahh! Oh!

REBECCA: A year later, the 31-year-old carpenter is back

and ready to make up for lost time.

You didn't have the full Tradie Ninja last year.

You had half of me.

Certainly this year, I've got something to prove to the course.

I know I can finish it. I know I can finish Midoriyama.

Whoo!

So, no mistakes.

Watch the clock, play it smart, and just work hard.

Hard work.

One of the most popular ninjas, and a fantastic contender.

His brother-in-law, Zed Colback, is watching on from the sidelines.

He went out in the semifinals. There's Zed.

And watching on from WA, wife, Rachel, and daughter, Abby.

Have a look at them in the big screen right now, Sam.

Hi, honey! Missing you!

You're gonna do really well. We know you can do it.

I know it's your wife, Sam. You should know, Sam.

He's just saying, "That's my wife."

OK, down to business, Freddie.

3:15 on the clock.

And here he goes across the Archer Steps.

No problems at all. One down, eight to go.

Starting with the Propeller. Needs to launch off the tramp here.

MAN: Oh, yeah!

Yes, manages just to hook that foot. Well played, Sam Goodall.

I thought it had got past him, but rescues it well.

Go on, Sam.

Great start from Sam Goodall. Gets off the Propeller.

And he's gotta be light-footed and fast on the Spinning Log.

Here he goes.

The Tradie Ninja, Sam Goodall, looks down and nails it.

Oh! Oh! Slow down, champion.

Wow!

He had to grab onto the rope to stop him

on the Swinging Cliff Hanger.

Nearly 38 seconds gone already, Bec.

Sam needs to pick up the pace here.

He scoots along that first board.

Needs to get it moving a little bit. Reaches over.

Grabs the second board, which will take him to safety.

Come on, Sam.

Stop looking at the family on the screen and get off this thing, man.

Yeah, they're all smiles.

He's four obstacle down, five to go.

Just ahead of Justin Flegler at this point.

Sam Goodall just letting the clock tick away a little bit now.

Coming up to 2:00. Come on, Sam.

Bounces on the trampoline onto the Wing Nut.

Yeah, this is a tough obstacle.

1.6 metres between each Wing Nut,

and there's a really unnatural movement -

swinging sideways to go forward.

It's a big lache! Yes! Yes!

Get off this, Sam Goodall.

Oh, Sam!

Blooming heck, Sam, 1:45.

Hecky pecky!

What's he doing? What's he doing? He's just hanging around.

The thing one's in his hands, and now he's on the mat.

As he turns the corner and prepares to go up the Warped Wall,

he gives the thumbs up to Freddie Flintoff,

and he is up the wall with 1:25 left on the clock.

So, he's just fallen behind Justin now,

and you can see the compounding effects

of tough obstacle after tough obstacle,

and that's ninja, though.

You've got to push through.

Take a few seconds and then move, come on!

And Zed's picked up on it.

We know how much of a fighter Sam is.

He's gonna have to dig deep, really deep, here on the seventh obstacle.

This is the Hinge.

And we're coming up to one minute remaining.

60 seconds now to three obstacles.

Keep moving! It's yours!

Can Sam Goodall make it across the next four panels?

Makes the transition. Swings onto the Hinge. He's not done yet.

Keep going, Sammy!

Yeah, but you know what, Bec?

He's only got 40 seconds left on the clock,

and I don't think that that's enough.

This is gonna push him.

These next two obstacles are really gonna push him

in terms of endurance and time.

He takes a quick look up at the clock.

He's only got just under 30 seconds.

OK. Oh, hang on! He's missed the step on the tramp.

Yeah, yeah, yeah!

Yeah, yeah, quite, mate! You're running out of time!

Oh, I'm worried about the clock now. I'm really worried about the clock.

He's got 18 seconds left, Sam Goodall.

He's gonna have to do the corridor in about six seconds. Can he do it?

Get out of here!

He's now got ten seconds! Can he get up this?

The warning buzzer letting him know that his time's running out.

Oh, he's so close!

Sam Goodall - he's got four seconds left, three seconds, two seconds!

One second! Can he do it?

Sadly, he's not gonna get there! Oh, no! Within a second!

He doesn't get there. He just misses out!

Sam Goodall with the buzzer in sight.

His Ninja Warrior dream within reach.

That was a photo finish like we have never seen before.

You're a legend, Sam!

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

(STIRRING INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC)

That would have been remarkable.

If he didn't falter on that mini tramp,

he would have been there, without a doubt.

An amazing finish.

I thought he was a long way off, but you're right, Bec.

If it wasn't for the stop-go on the mini tramp,

he probably would have got there in time.

FREDDIE: Five seconds short.

No excuses. Just should have gone a bit harder.

Yeah, just... the time just went faster.

Maybe time goes faster over here.

I mean, in Albany, things go pretty slow.

So, you get used to that slower way of life,

but, hey, no excuses.

Awesome course, awesome obstacles.

Yeah, just gonna have to work on my speed game.

Well done, Sam. Great effort, mate.

So close for Sam Goodall,

but his Ninja Warrior dream is over for season three.

Don't go anywhere.

Stage one of the Ninja Warrior grand final is just heating up.

Ahead, Australia's very best ninjas battle it out for $100,000.

Ryan Solomon.

I'm just a plumber from Brisbane

and I'm mixing it with some of the craziest athletes I've ever met.

There's golfer Charlie Robbins,

our only female competitor, Olivia Vivian,

and while all eyes are on 'Flashlin' Ashlin Herbert,

can anyone beat the 'Barefoot Ninja'?

My big goal this year was to get to the grand final,

but now that I'm here, I wanna see it all the way through.

BEN: It is stage one of the Ninja Warrior grand final,

and Australia's very best ninjas are getting ready to take their shot

at a guaranteed $100,000.

REBECCA: Next on course,

a man who's already written his name in the history books

by finishing furthest fastest in season one.

He was unwell in the semis,

but still managed to qualify for the grand final.

The big question tonight - is he back to his best?

It's Brisbane chippie Fred Dorrington.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

FREDDIE: Fred Dorrington and his trademark yellow T-shirt

with the kangaroo on the front

is no stranger to the finals of Ninja Warrior.

He was ill in the semifinals,

suffering from gastro.

Even under par, he can get through

to the grand final.

Real contender, this lad, Fred Dorrington.

A real chance.

(CHIME SOUNDS)

There's the buzzer, and he's under way across the Archer Steps.

Skips across so easily.

You got it! Whoo! Great start for Fred.

This bloke is a no-nonsense campaigner

who just gets the job done.

But... (GASPS)

Oh, wow.

Fred Dorrington has just missed his catch on obstacle number two.

Our furthest faster from season one

goes out in grand final, night one, on obstacle two.

And everybody here is stunned.

Fred, you can just sense the shock around the place.

Tell us how you're feeling, mate.

Yeah, don't know what happened there.

I think I just didn't explode out of it enough,

and I kind of just, yeah, didn't spot it too well.

I'm feeling good. Was ready to go.

I thought I was hitting that buzzer all day long,

and I'm actually shocked I've gone down like that,

and I'm, yeah, gutted.

I'm sorry, everyone,

that I didn't actually get a bit further than you expected.

Don't apologise! You did awesome!

Just gonna have to bring it back next time.

Yeah, no need to apologise. Unlucky, mate.

I'm sure we'll see you again.

Ladies and gentlemen, Fred Dorrington!

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

And just like that,

Fred Dorrington's grand final is over in 13 seconds.

It can happen to the best ninjas, Bec.

It's a hardcore course, Ben.

Every obstacle is brutal.

A single slip will cost your shot, and a minimum 100 grand.

Next is a ninja who just missed a grand final spot last season.

And so far this season,

he hasn't been able to finish the course.

Tonight will be a great time to change all of that.

Get ready for Brisbane plumber Ryan Solomon.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Ryan and wife, Amy, have had the best and worst of years

since last season.

RYAN: We started with our wedding.

Was the best day of our lives.

We found out Amy was pregnant, which was just amazing.

(STIRRING INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC)

Sadly, we lost our little baby at 18 weeks.

The toughest of tough things just brings us together.

Yeah. So, yeah, it's nice.

Now you're gonna make me cry.

But recently, good news.

They've shared with us they're pregnant again -

the perfect boost for Ryan's second grand final appearance.

After a massive year of ups and downs,

to go and hit that buzzer tonight, really celebrate,

would just top it off for us.

I'm here just a couple of steps away from that big prize money.

So, I've really gotta make it count.

Whoo!

Well, that is just wonderful news, and great motivation for tonight.

FREDDIE: So far Ryan, in Ninja Warrior season three,

hasn't hit the buzzer.

Tonight would be the night to do that,

and book his place into part two of the grand finals.

He's got 3:15.

Ryan Solomon, one of our heaviest ninjas.

(CHIME SOUNDS)

90 kilos, and he's under way across the Archer Steps, no problem.

Straight away through the Archer Step.

Now, this is a tricky one.

This is awful - the Propeller. AMY: Got this, babe!

Gotta time this jump, gotta grab on,

gotta time it with your feet to grab the rope.

(CROWD EXCLAIMS) Oh!

He just hangs on to the Propeller. Can he get off?

Dear me!

He's got a foot on the rope, and he's off the rope.

Great save, Ryan Solomon.

I was worried about him then, but he's through to the Spinning Log.

This won't be easy, because he's got 90kg of body mass,

and this thing spins underfoot.

Oh, he just manages to get the foot placement just right.

His fans are loving this.

He's five seconds slower than Sam Goodall,

and we know what happened to Sam, so he needs to move.

He'll be much more comfortable on the Swinging Cliff Hanger.

Look at the pecs and the upper body and the shoulders and the biceps.

You've named most of the muscles. (REBECCA LAUGHS)

You've got him covered. He's got them covered.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Little bit of a slip in the end. 2:20 left on the clock.

Now the Wing Nuts.

There's 1.65 metres between each Wing Nut.

Now, he needs to get the bounce perfect.

Launches up.

Amy on the sideline is stirring up the crowd,

because she knows the louder they are,

the more encouragement Ryan Solomon has.

Makes the transfer.

Time at this minute - 2:00 left. 1:15 so far gone.

He's getting the swing on again,

and Ryan grips it, and he's off.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Now the Warped Wall.

First time this season for Ryan. Needs to nail it first go.

And he has!

Down to 1:41 now, but he's starting to puff.

He hasn't exploded as far as pace is concerned.

Maybe he's just timed this just right.

And on the Hinge, it's all about concentration and technique.

CROWD: Ryan! Ryan! Ryan!

AMY: That's it, babe!

How now gets on the first plank,

and this is a difficult transition because of his weight,

but he grabs the top of it.

That seems to be the safest way of doing it.

You need to get up nice and high. Now just for the transfer.

See how big he is?

He just puts his foot there and it's just a step over.

And when you get around the back of it, you're then jumping backwards,

but he manages to do it.

He's got one minute to complete two obstacles.

Holding my breath now for Ryan Solomon.

The Jumping Spider.

We've seen other ninjas slide down this grey wall.

Please don't let it happen to you!

He grips it. Sticks it! Solid as a rock!

Have a look at the size of those legs.

Oh, my word, this is going to be tight.

45 seconds left on the clock.

Still half of the spider wall to get through.

Needs to get off this as fast as he can

and sprint over to the Chimney Sweep.

OK, he's now gotta race against the clock,

because there's 30 seconds

and he's gotta go eight metres up the Chimney Sweep.

Can he do it?

Using his arms, using his legs.

Pushing everything against the side.

20 seconds to go. He's up to five metres.

This is going to mean so much to Ryan Solomon and Amy.

He has not hit the buzzer so far this season.

Through the hatch!

And with ten seconds left on the clock, Ryan Solomon...

(KLAXON BLARES)

..yes, he can!

Ryan Solomon! Whoo-hoo!

What a moment for Ryan Solomon and his wife, Amy.

She's overcome with emotion. Look at her.

She can't believe he has done it.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

I think everyone's a bit emotional at the moment.

He had all the motivation he needed to defeat every obstacle,

and he hit the buzzer with six seconds left on the clock.

He's become our first ninja through to stage two tomorrow night.

I can't believe it - he's not hit the buzzer all season,

and then in the moment that it mattered most...

He hits the buzzer. Bam!

(LAUGHS) Isn't that great?

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Babe, I'm so proud of you!

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Thanks, baby.

(CRIES) That was for you, darling.

I hate to break this up, Ryan, but there's a drink, mate.

It's the first time pressing the buzzer this time around.

How does it feel, Ryan?

It's unbelievable.

It really means the world,

and I really owe it all to my wife.

She pushed me to do extra sessions.

She was making sure I was eating right.

Come in here, Amy. (CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

I know it's been a tough year for the two of you,

but what does this mean to you?

He's into the grand final, into part two.

I'm so proud of him.

He's been up first thing in the morning, he goes to gym,

he works all day, he goes back to gym.

He's so amazing. I'm so blessed to have him as a husband.

How does that feel, Ryan,

listening to the wife speak about you like that?

It is the best feeling in the world, you know.

I'm the luckiest man in the world to have her as my wife.

Just very blessed.

Mate, I'm so pleased for the both of you.

I'm sure you wanna get off and give her a cuddle and whatever you do.

Ryan, amazing work, mate. Well done, pal. Good luck. Cheers, Amy.

REBECCA: Beautiful! It's a love story.

That was absolutely sensational.

We're gonna have more sensational runs right after this

on the grand final of Australian Ninja Warrior.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

And coming up, the romance continues.

Nathan Ryles vowed to propose to his girlfriend

when he finished a stage,

but he fell short in the heats and the semis.

He swings... oh, he just couldn't hold on!

This time, Freddie's got the ring.

Please let me hit this buzzer.

BEN: Welcome back to Australian Ninja Warrior,

where stage one of the grand finals is proving brutal.

REBECCA: Over the break, cultural performer Danial Wyles-Wall...

Oh, no!

..pulled off a great escape.

FREDDIE: Oh, hanging on. Going for the underarm grip!

Get up there, son! Yes!

But there was no getting away from the Bouncing Spider.

Oh, no! No!

Extreme skater Owen Davey took on the Propeller

and got in a spin.

Oh, he's not hanging around. Oh, he's gone. He's gone.

Perth's Luke Shelton suffered the same fate.

Oh... oh!

This guy was dreaming of Mount Midoriyama.

Ryan Solomon remains the only ninja through to stage two.

Let's check in with Freddie Flintoff now,

who's been entrusted with a secret mission.

Now, listen to this for responsibility.

Nathan Ryles has been planning on proposing to his girlfriend

if he gets to the top and presses the buzzer.

Usually his dad's on the sideline and he's in charge of this.

Look at that for an engagement ring!

But he's not here, so I'm gonna have to put it in my pocket

and hand it to him if he gets to the top.

Oh, I hope he does.

I could be involved in something very beautiful.

I might even get emotional.

Nathan, just gonna pop it in here.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

NATHAN: For tonight's grand final run,

I feel like the proposal

puts a little bit more pressure on me now,

but I really want it to happen.

Like, that is my main goal.

The first time, I didn't quite get up the wall.

I am so nervous for Nathan.

Oh, he's almost there!

Second time, I didn't quite hold on to the shelf.

He swings! Oh, he just couldn't hold on.

Third time, I just need to propose to my girlfriend.

Please let me hit this buzzer.

I'm just gonna give everything that I have to try and get there.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Yes, Bec and Ben, Nathan Ryles has put himself

under a little bit of added pressure,

and we know why.

It's all good.

Not pressed the buzzer yet

in any of the heats, the semifinals.

Tonight, Nathan,

has got to be the night.

Nathan!

And there is Tori, with Nathan's mum and sister.

She's got no idea what's going on.

Come on, Nathan!

And she can't hear what we're saying.

Our comments are not going out over the speakers.

OK, go, Nathan.

You really need to get to the end, my friend.

Here he goes on the Propeller.

Test that trampoline,

and let's just hope that he doesn't come unstuck on this obstacle.

Grab it!

Oh, manages to hang on. Going for a ride round once.

Hooking them arms up. Needs to get that rope.

Pulls the rope towards him.

Good stuff, Nathan. He's still in the game.

Look at the big deep breath

to centre himself again to get across...

Go, Nathan... oh, not on the Spinning Log!

Not on the Spinning Log.

Yes, the Spinning Log has sadly brought him down.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

And you get the feeling

he just put too much pressure on himself, Nathan.

Devastated.

(STIRRING INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC)

Nathan, we know how hard you train,

how hard you work and dedicate yourself to ninja.

How gutting is it to go out right now?

Oh, I'm just absolutely gutted that I didn't get that.

Tori's put so much off for me to be here,

and we've just been working at it together.

She's been helping me out so much.

So, I absolutely love her to bits,

and it means so much to have her here, and... yeah.

Well, unlucky tonight, Nathan.

I'm sure we'll see you again. Top man.

Don't forget to give that ring back, Freddie,

because there might be a non-ninja proposal for Tori and Nathan

not too far away.

So, we are still looking for another ninja

to make it to stage two.

Trial bike rider Le Hua reckons he's up to the challenge.

He came 17th in the heats,

seventh in the semifinals.

He's a national trial bike champion.

He can take a bike places that no-one else can,

but his focus is all ninja tonight.

The 100,000 is just there.

WOMAN: Breathe, babe! Take it easy! (CHIME SOUNDS)

Here he goes - Le Hua!

And he is flying out of the blocks. No fear!

OK, the Propeller. He tests that trampoline.

He's used to running against the clock with his bike riding.

Tonight the wheels are off.

FREDDIE: Bounces. Gotta grab on.

Oh, wait... wow! Look at that!

Fantastic stuff from Le Hua!

A great save, and Catherine enjoyed that.

Now onto the Spinning Log.

We're just seen what can happen here.

CROWD: Run! Run! Run! Run! Run!

Needs to be fast, needs to be nimble.

Needs to be balanced.

There he goes - Le Hua! Oh, he's rolling!

Falls onto the mat, but he is safe.

Nothing wrong with that.

Next up, obstacle four - the Swinging Cliff Hanger.

You gotta use those ledges,

and also swing your hips and your legs,

because you've gotta get across from one panel to the next.

There he goes.

He looks confident up there. Looks relaxed, looks cool!

Go on, Le Hua!

He's ten seconds slower than Ryan Solomon to here.

Cutting it very fine now.

Le Hua moving on to the Wing Nuts. Still 2:00 left on the clock.

Grabbing onto the Wing Nuts as they move and twist.

He'll need to lache onto the second of the Wing Nuts.

Taking his time. Getting a little bit stuck.

All these ninjas, not just one eye on the obstacles,

but so too the clock.

One more, Le.

Oh, he somehow hangs on!

I think that was a mistake, but it worked out OK.

Well done, Le!

Le Hua with 1:33 on the clock.

He's gotta get a wriggle on.

Oh, he's just smashed head first into the Warped Wall.

And that is gonna cost him.

Not only did that hurt,

I think it's gonna cost him in terms of time.

Come on, Le.

1:20 left on the clock. Get up there, Le!

Second shot. Le Hua's up the wall!

Alright, he corrected his mistake on the Warped Wall there.

He comes down now.

Good job!

He's 20 seconds slower than Ryan now.

He's got to go!

Now no time to rest, no time to take a breather.

Straight onto the next obstacle, the Hinge.

Awkward place to put your hands.

Gotta wrap your hands around it

and now jump onto the second set of boards.

You know how!

Le looking over both shoulders.

Whoo-hoo! There you go.

Now the Hinge locks into place,

and now you move across to this final panel,

and then you're pretty much complete.

There we go! Up onto the Jumping Spider.

The problem here, Bec, is that you're racing the clock,

and there's only 37 seconds left on the clock.

Come on, Le. He's got two obstacles left.

Remember, Le Hua fell on the Bouncing Spider in the semifinal.

Not making the same mistake this time around.

Moving ever forward, but the clock is ticking down.

25 seconds now!

He's at the Chimney Sweep,

and Catherine is urging him, "Keep on going, Le!"

It's gonna be tight. 15 seconds.

He's at level two. It's all arms and legs here.

You gotta push. You're up against it, Le!

You are really up against it!

You've gotta dig as hard as you've ever dug before!

He's halfway! Starting to gas, starting to tire.

Struggling... (KLAXON BLARES)

The clock beats him. Oh, Le!

Just two metres from the top of the Chimney Sweep,

Le Hua's Ninja Warrior challenge is over.

Absolutely devastating.

He was so close!

And you just think back to that moment

when he first went up the Warped Wall, Bec,

and hit it face first.

If he hadn't have done that,

he probably would have made it through in time.

It's easy to say with hindsight, isn't it?

But the fact is this course is just so difficult.

And here's the evidence of that.

Out of nine starters,

only Ryan Solomon has managed

to complete it.

All the rest, including big names,

like Sam Goodall

and Fred Dorrington, are out.

So, who can tame stage one?

Coming up, scratch golfer Charlie Robbins.

CHARLIE: My goal for tonight is just to go as fast as I can.

Make sure I hit that buzzer before that clock runs out.

'The Mighty Mo', Alex Matthews.

It's the third time I'm in the grand final now.

Maybe I am alright at this.

But next, he reckons it's his destiny.

Can Josh O'Sullivan reach stage two?

BEN: Welcome back to stage one

of the Australian Ninja Warrior grand final.

There's a guaranteed $100,000 on the line

for our furthest fastest winner this year,

and no-one's better prepared for that challenge than our next ninja.

REBECCA: He made it to the grand finals last year

and was third in the semis.

He's been doing everything in his power to be ready for this moment.

Don't underestimate Josh O'Sullivan.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

JOSH: If you want to do well,

you really have to change your lifestyle

and focus on what you want.

The type of training that I do is breath holds.

So, I'll dive down, grab a rock.

I try and visualise the course, lower my heart rate.

About 2:00, 1:30 in the morning,

I get up, go for a run, do a little workout.

So that it kind of mimics what it's like

to be on the course late at night.

I've changed my whole life around ninja.

I've never been more focused or more ready.

FREDDIE: Josh O'Sullivan, from NSW.

The man who says getting to the top of Mount Midoriyama is his destiny.

He's dedicated his life to ninja.

He's changed his training, changed his sleep patterns.

Let's see what you got.

He's got a lucky charm on the sideline,

Betsy Burnett, the 'Disco Ninja'.

They met and fell in love on this show.

(CHIME SOUNDS)

3:15 on the clock and counting.

Josh O'Sullivan rips through obstacle number one.

Here is the troublesome Propeller.

You got this!

OK, he needs a great leap off the mini tramp.

Bear hug it, Josh.

And now can he transfer onto that rope? He will.

You should be able to just hook it with your leg.

On this time. Needs to grab hold.

There he goes through the Propeller.

Come on, Joshie!

Now, this Spinning Log has claimed two already.

Needs to be fast and straight.

Yes! Through.

We know the ninjas are up against the clock, up against the time.

Everyone on the sidelines - camera crew, everyone running,

trying to keep up with Josh O'Sullivan.

On the Swinging Cliff Hanger, making easy work of it.

Needs to get it swinging, going to the second bracket.

Here he goes. Come on!

Come on!

Thought about coming off that time.

Takes an extra swing, but now here he goes.

Whoo!

2:20 on the clock,

as Josh O'Sullivan gets ready to take on the Wing Nut.

Shakes the shoulders.

It's another test of the upper body.

You do need to get two hands into those grooves

and make the lache to the second Wing Nut.

Grab a hold of one side of it,

transfer one hand onto the second side of it...

He looks good in the air! ..then do it all again.

Great in the air.

Josh O'Sullivan is on fire in the grand final tonight.

Straight up the Warped Wall,

and as he sets himself for the next obstacle,

which is the Hinge.

You know what I'm liking at this point?

He's got 1:50 on the clock,

and he's gotta get through three obstacles,

and it works out to be ten seconds faster than Ryan Solomon

at this point.

He's tracking well.

But we all know the Hinge is gonna slow him down a little bit.

Needs to concentrate here.

As he now enters the Hinge, new obstacle to season three.

Needs to push himself, and turn and spin.

There he goes. Ohhh, just leans back.

The grip strength was good enough, though.

Come on, Joshie!

Josh O'Sullivan getting his grip sorted,

using one leg to reach that final board.

Shimmies around, and then makes the dismount.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Breathe, Josh!

Just over 1:00 left on the clock. Two obstacles to go.

The Jumping Spider.

Now, the trick is here

to get yourself nice and deep into the corridor.

See where that artwork is, where there's a 'V'?

You want to be past that,

because there's still a curve on the wall there.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

A deep breath from Betsy, and here he goes.

Hits the tramp. Lands it!

As he's wedged in the spider wall, I'm just looking at the clock.

Coming up to 40 seconds to go.

It's gonna be tight. Needs to get a wriggle on.

It's a straight jump down

and then you set yourself for the Chimney Sweep.

30 seconds to make it up eight metres.

OK, Josh O'Sullivan,

you may well be on your way to the grand final part two.

All that training, all that dedication coming into play.

There's a lid on the top now. Push it through.

All he has to do is hit the buzzer!

Come on, Josh O'Sullivan!

(KLAXON BLARES) Yes!

You are sensational! Yes!

How good was that?

The fastest run of the night!

Betsy's rapt! Josh is rapt! We're all rapt!

Heavens to Betsy, Josh O'Sullivan the second ninja through

to stage two of the grand final.

It was perfection from 'the Modern Mowgli'.

A flawless run that picked up pace throughout.

Josh was always in control

and had plenty left in the tank to make it to the buzzer

six seconds faster than Ryan Solomon.

Josh, you told us before

that getting to the top of Mount Midoriyama

is your destiny.

You still thinking that?

Mount Midoriyama's there in the back,

but you know, you need to get through everything.

So, you can't underestimate any obstacle.

We got Betsy over here. Come on, Betsy.

Go on! Go on!

Tell us a bit about this fella. Is it his destiny?

Yep, it is.

He's been working for this since series one,

and we've always known that he's had the potential to go that far,

and this year everything's coming together for him.

So, yep, you can do it, baby! Oh, shucks.

Well, Josh, well done, mate.

You're in stage two of the grand finals.

Well done, pal. Go and rest up. Amazing.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Great stuff.

Our second ninja through to stage two,

and we're hoping for plenty more.

Don't go anywhere.

It's grand final week on Australian Ninja Warrior.

Ahead, the biggest names are yet to run.

Bragging rights are on the line,

not only to beat the course, to set the fastest time,

and to put down a marker for the $100,000.

It's Ashlin versus close rival Dan Mason.

Last year's furthest fastest Rob Patterson

versus second-placed Bryson Klein.

And next, the one woman standing against them all, Olivia Vivian.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC BUILDS)

BEN: Welcome back to grand final night one

of Australian Ninja Warrior.

And, Bec, I think it's safe to say

this is a moment everyone has been waiting for

Our next ninja is one of the most naturally gifted

to ever hit the course.

She was the only woman to make it into the grand final last year,

and she's done it again.

From Perth, Olivia Vivian.

Going into the grand final,

I know that this is where I got to last year.

FREDDIE: Massive jump.

Oh, and she misses! Oh, no!

Olivia Vivian! Oh!

You know, this is my crux,

and I really want to hit that buzzer in a grand final

and be the first Australian female to do so.

(KLAXON BLARES) She hits the buzzer!

Olivia Vivian! Yes! Wow!

And I just hope that it can motivate others.

You know, it can really send that message of this is possible.

It doesn't matter what sex you are, you know.

It's how you attack each obstacle,

and we can absolutely do this.

It's either you hit the buzzer or you're out.

Let's bring her out - Olivia Vivian.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Superstar - absolute and utter superstar.

There is no other word for Olivia Vivian than superstar.

She's the only woman to make it into the grand final

two years running.

This year, fourth in her semi,

and she did the splits

up the Warped Wall.

Backflip last year,

splits this year.

Boyfriend's on the side, Ben Polson.

Remember, Ben fell off in the semis.

Mum's on the sideline as well just to support her,

but here she goes, Olivia Vivian,

ready to take on the grand final course.

The only girl in the field having a chance to do so tonight,

and she's off to a safe start.

Now, let's see how she handles this very tricky Propeller.

Go, Olivia! Yes, Olivia!

She kicks out. Oh, she just missed the rope.

Look at the timing. Can she get it? Oh, she does.

Olivia Vivian has done the Propeller.

She would have liked to have done that in one motion,

but she didn't panic when it didn't go to plan.

(CROWD CHANTS)

Now, Olivia Vivian taking on the Spinning Log.

Needs speed, and she's through.

Olivia Vivian on the run!

Onto the Swinging Cliff Hanger.

You can imagine that this obstacle would play into her hands.

Not much weight to carry around.

Strong upper body, strong grip strength.

Look how calm and controlled she is.

I think she'll being the same sort of form to the Wing Nuts as well.

Good time!

Ben Polson giving advice on the side.

Onto the first of the Wing Nuts.

Needs to get swinging, transfer that body onto the second.

Making short work of the course so far, Olivia Vivian.

She needs to get off this first Wing Nut onto the second.

She does it now, and makes it.

She caught that right at the end there, didn't she?

Just eating a little bit of time.

That's it. Breathe! Breathe! You're fine!

Not finding these obstacles too easy tonight, Olivia Vivian.

Yes!

This woman is fit, but at this stage, she's feeling it.

You can tell by the look on her face. She's shaking out her hands.

Up the Warped Wall.

Olivia Vivian only just gets those hands up there,

but she's trying not to waste any energy,

so no backflips tonight.

She's eight seconds slower than Josh O'Sullivan at this point,

but she's on track to make history again.

She could be the first woman through to stage two of a grand final.

OK, here she goes on the Hinge.

You need to make the transfer from the pole to the vertical board.

She does that nicely. She's light and nimble.

She is exactly like a cat.

Should flip alright. Perfect! Absolutely textbook.

And Olivia Vivian is getting it done with 1:13 remaining.

She just pokes the tongue out.

You don't have time to poke the tongue out in the grand final.

Yes, she does. She did it.

Olivia Vivian obviously feeling so confident in the grand final.

She looks at the clock

and realises she's got 60 seconds to do two obstacles.

And now let's see her launch herself... oh, no!

Oh, no! Oh, no! Olivia Vivian.

She freaked out as she was rushing towards that trampoline,

and then she changed her mind and thought, "Can I put it in reverse?"

It was too late. She found herself in the water.

That's a really unfortunate ending

for one of the superstars of Australian Ninja Warrior.

That was a momentary lapse in concentration,

and that's what happened to one of our superstars.

I'm devastated.

Sorry she had to go.

Olivia, you was killing the course.

What a way to go out, on the trampoline, of all things!

I'm... I'm heartbroken.

Felt my leg go,

and I almost just wanted to not go

'cause I was gonna face-plant it,

and the momentum was too much.

Did you feel any added pressure,

being the only girl to get through the grand finals again,

doing it for the girls?

To be honest, not at all.

I don't feel like, you know, I'm just a female in this.

I feel like I'm a strong...

..you know, like, a contender as a ninja.

So, I wanted... (CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

..I wanted to show that.

Unfortunately, it didn't go my way tonight.

Freddie, ninja changed my life.

You know, before this, I was just working.

I didn't care about, you know, myself, my body,

being fit and healthy,

and it was the first season

that just completely lit a fire up under me.

So, it's changed my life.

I'm hoping that, you know,

these ninjas getting out here and giving it their all

can inspire others to just give it a crack.

Just give something new a go,

'cause you just don't know what road it's gonna take you down.

Well, you've inspired everyone tonight

and all the way through the competition.

I'm sure we'll see you again next year

and you'll be training even harder.

Olivia, great effort. Ladies and gentlemen, Olivia Vivian.

Well done, Olivia. (CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

She's amazing,

and I know she says that she doesn't wanna see it

through the prism of being a woman, and that's fair enough,

but I must say there are so many young girls out there

who have been inspired by Olivia Vivian,

and she cannot ever forget that.

OK, don't go anywhere.

You're watching grand final night one on Australian Ninja Warrior.

I love you so much. Mmm!

Coming up...

All those practices racing Ashlin will maybe come in handy.

..Barefoot Ninja Dan Mason was just four seconds slower

than Ashlin Herbert in the semis.

Can he be fastest tonight?

I know there was signs of cracks. Maybe something I can exploit.

He's in a little bit of trouble, Ben!

And last year's second place Bryson Klein

takes rivalry to a whole new level.

The only one I'm out to beat is myself from last year.

So, Bryson, I'm coming for you.

BEN: The ninja warrior who powers their way furthest and fastest,

outlasting the others,

will be declared the season's winner and take home $100,000,

thanks to Energizer.

Welcome back to grand final stage one

of Australian Ninja Warrior.

Our ninjas must complete nine incredibly challenging obstacles

in just 3:15

to advance to tomorrow night's stage two and three.

It's so brutal.

So far, only Josh O'Sullivan and Ryan Solomon

have completed the course,

but the biggest names in our competition are still to run.

Up now is a kid from the Blue Mountains

who was runner-up last season,

and is determined to go one better this year.

He is one of the favourites! It is Bryson Klein.

He may have seemed like a goofy kid last year...

As soon as that buther goes... buzzer goes.

Sorry. Do you want me to do that again?

Oh, I'm so bad at this. I'm so sorry!

..but Bryson Klein came within inches of winning

furthest fastest in his first season.

Come on!

Needs to get them hands on the side.

Oh, Bryson Klein! No! He hits the water.

I really would have loved to have gotten to stage three.

I didn't.

That just put a fire in my belly to come back bigger and better.

Shoots himself up! He's done it!

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE) Yes!

Back in the grand final this year,

the goofy kid has transformed into a red-hot contender.

I'd love to get that title of Australia's first ninja warrior.

I believe I have what it takes to go all the way.

MAN: Yeah, Bryson! Whoo!

Bryson Klein, the wonder boy from the Blue Mountains,

season two second place grand finalist.

But the Mega Warped Wall in the heats

was fastest in his semifinal,

and here he is on stage one

at the grand final course.

REBECCA: Plenty of love from dad, Matthew, on the sideline tonight.

Well, we know he's fast enough, but it only takes one mistake.

Is this Bryson's year?

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Super quick, this guy.

Don't go anywhere. (CHIME SOUNDS)

You will miss this guy on this course. He will fly!

Now he's onto the second obstacle - a real challenge, the Propeller.

Doesn't even go round. Straight onto the rope.

Bryson Klein smashing this course so far.

Watch out for the Spinning Log. Sweet!

Look how quickly he's moving.

Swinging Cliff Hanger.

He's already nearly 20 seconds quicker than Josh O'Sullivan,

and we said he was gonna go fast,

and he's already about to complete obstacle number four.

He's only 30 seconds in. Let that sink in.

Four obstacles in 30 seconds.

He is absolutely flying, but doesn't want to take any risks.

Look at the hip and leg swing.

Great transfer onto the second Wing Nut.

It's all about speed and control,

and Bryson is showing us both so far.

Onto the third Wing Nut.

Making his way to the end.

Making sure he does not make a mistake.

Now, won't even hang around.

His dad, Matthew, on the side, cheering him on.

Bryson Klein - up the Warped Wall. Of course he is.

He's 20 seconds faster than Josh now.

This is a blistering speed.

This pace has gotta be hurting, though,

and fatigue, we know, can lead to mistakes.

He needs to be careful.

2:00 left on the clock. Up the pole. This is the Hinge.

This is the first panel that he's on now.

He gets around the other side of it,

and then he's gotta make this cat leap onto the Hinge.

Gets it. Yeah, Bryson!

The Hinge locks into place.

Blowing a little bit now.

You can see him sucking the oxygen, not wanting to put a foot wrong.

He's just not rushing.

He doesn't seem to be fazed by the clock or daunted by the crowd.

And with 1:30 on the clock, Bryson Klein has two obstacles to do.

He takes a good look at the clock here,

and he really needs to make sure

this bounce on the mini tramp is 100%.

Here goes Bryson.

Oh, little bit of a slip, but he sticks it.

He's making his way through.

Pushing his way into the walls, moving himself forward.

Bit of a grimace on his face.

The course just catching up with Bryson Klein a little bit.

Come on, Bryson!

By the time he gets down to the bottom of the Chimney Sweep,

he will have 1:00 left on the clock.

And he's over 30 seconds ahead of Josh O'Sullivan's fastest time.

Four metres. Five metres.

Have a look at him - he uses every muscle in those legs and the arms

to put himself on top of the chimney.

He struggles a bit with the hatch, but the buzzer's waiting, Bec.

Oh, what a special night for the 20-year-old!

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Celebrate that long and hard, Bryson Klein!

Whoo! Wow!

39 seconds left on the clock.

Done.

39 seconds left.

We could have had another obstacle or two there for him.

I don't think so, but done and dusted for Bryson Klein.

What a statement by last year's second place ninja.

Fastest of the night by nearly 30 seconds.

That was Bryson Klein at his very best.

He never looked rushed, always in control,

but still managed to be so, so fast,

and with a guaranteed 100 grand on the line tomorrow night,

that run is certain to have caught the other ninjas' attention.

Bryson's thrown down the gauntlet.

Our third ninja through to stage two,

but the rivalry is heating up.

Let's hope he can show us how it's done.

It is the Barefoot Ninja, Daniel Mason.

(STIRRING INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC)

After failing to qualify for the last two grand finals...

And he's off.

OK. Oh, what?!

Oh, no!

..one of the most talented ninjas of all has finally made it.

Could we be looking at Australia's first Ninja Warrior?

Daniel Mason, ten out of ten!

DANIEL: Being in the grand final this year

means that all that training I've put in has been worth it.

I have the capability,

but just gotta put it all together on the night.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

Daniel Mason, the Barefoot Ninja.

One of our strongest competitors

in the competition,

although this is the first time

he's made the grand finals.

He'll be wanting to put a time on now.

Daniel's wife, Maddi, is also ready on the sideline,

as is little Fletcher.

(CHIME SOUNDS)

And here comes Daniel Mason,

a very popular Ninja Warrior challenger,

and how's he gonna go here on the Propeller, Bec?

OK... oh, gee whiz!

Daniel Mason clings on with one arm,

but he gets the rope and makes it off.

Oh! I thought he was gone then.

I thought he only had one hand on it and he didn't grip it properly.

Going straight at the Spinning Log, and straight through.

Not hanging around whatsoever!

Three obstacles down,

and Daniel's about five seconds slower than Bryson Klein

to the Swinging Cliff Hanger.

But he's done.

Nice work, Dan.

And now the Wing Nuts.

He's taking no time in between obstacles.

Getting ready to fly onto that second Nut.

He wants to knock as many of these obstacles over as quickly as he can.

OK, just getting the right swing to get onto that last Wing Nut,

and the dismount is perfect.

Straight up the Warped Wall.

Then he needs to focus on the next obstacle, which is the Hinge.

There's the Warped Wall done,

and at the top of the Warped Wall, Bec,

there's 2:10 left on the clock.

Certainly looks like he's picked up the pace a bit to here.

Neck and neck now with Bryson.

Makes his way onto the Hinge.

Turned himself round.

Will need to jump now onto the next set of boards,

which will spin round and take him to the last one.

There we go. Look at that. Stayed high. Good technique.

Kept his hands on the top.

Now, this time round, just clamping his legs in.

Easily done. Just turn round now, jump to safety.

There we go, Daniel.

1:30 left on the clock, and this is a phenomenal time.

It is a phenomenal time,

and the only problem here

will be a slight lapse in concentration for Daniel Mason,

but he won't have it.

Don't say it, don't say it. He is experienced.

From this point onwards, I don't expect him to put a foot wrong.

Daniel Mason, you are looking like a champion at this point.

He's got 1:10 left on the clock as he enters the Chimney Sweep,

and he's now 12 seconds faster than Bryson.

He's not slowing down in the chimney either.

Have a look at Daniel Mason.

We've never seen him like this before.

Yeah, he's about to open the hatch.

This is an incredible run.

He's about to put his hand on the buzzer

and cement his place in grand final stage two tomorrow night!

Daniel Mason, you little ripper!

This is a night he will not forget!

Have a look at the smile on that dial.

Daniel Mason, the Barefoot Ninja, completes stage one

13 seconds faster than Bryson Klein.

Unbelievable.

Come on, Daniel.

Well, it's your first time in the grand final,

and I've gotta say, you've just stepped it up there, haven't you?

That was an awesome run.

DANIEL: Oh, thanks, yeah.

It's an amazing experience just to be here,

but, yeah, to get to the top in the grand final is awesome.

Can't wait for the next round.

And 52 seconds left on the clock.

You've laid the law down for Ashlin Herbert, haven't you?

I know you've got some rivalry going on!

Yeah, it would be nice to get him on time,

but, man, he's quick, so looking forward to watching his run.

Never mind watching his run.

Have you got a message to Ashlin just down that camera?

'Cause I know four seconds in the semis, he beat you by.

What have you got for our curly-haired lad?

In the camera. Right down the camera. Let him have it.

Come on, Ashlin. I've set the time for you tonight.

Let's see if you can get this one.

Whoa! Fighting talk, Ashlin Herbert!

Let's have a quick break while we all settle down.

Oh, I can't wait for Ashlin now. Go on, go see the missus.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC BUILDS)

Daniel, you've blown everybody away,

but next is the biggest dark horse this season.

Blitzing his way through the course!

Who'd have thought? Look at him go!

Golfer Charlie Robbins.

With a guaranteed $100,000 up for grabs,

can he produce when the pressure's really on?

BEN: Welcome back to stage one of the grand final,

and I can tell you the competition has just been blown wide open.

The Barefoot Ninja Dan Mason has set the benchmark,

but over the break, three big guns have given their all

to try and beat it.

REBECCA: Stuntman Mike Snow was the first out of the blocks.

Stage one of the grand final is done.

A brilliant run, but he was 30 seconds slower than Dan.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

He's just 22 years of age,

from Sydney.

Next up, gymnast Jordan Papandrea.

Jordan Papandrea, you star! (KLAXON BLARES)

He was 14 seconds behind Dan.

And then the Mighty Mo,

Alex Matthews,

survived a late scare.

Oh, no! Hang on, hang on! Get back up there, Alex.

He powered on to finish,

and his time - just two seconds behind Dan.

Alex! Slams that buzzer!

Whoo!

All of a sudden,

the competition for the $100,000

is very tight.

We now have seven top ninjas

through to stage two.

Barefoot Ninja fastest of the lot,

with 52 seconds left on the clock.

Alex Matthews

barely two seconds behind.

Bryson Klein next,

followed by Jordan and Mike.

Ryan Solomon cut it the finest -

six seconds to spare.

Make no mistake, all want to be the fastest through to stage two,

but they must make sure they finish the course.

That includes our next ninja,

and Freddie's down with his fan club.

I'm sat in the support crowd of a ninja who's come from nowhere.

He's definitely the best dressed.

He's a scratch golfer, and this is his posse.

They've all got their hats on. It's Charlie Robbins.

I've got his grandad, Taff.

Taff, how's he gonna do tonight? Are you excited?

Very excited. Charlie will do great, as far as I'm concerned.

His focus as a golfer will help him out greatly.

So, I'm confident. Yeah, well, fingers crossed.

Here he is - Charlie Robbins.

The golfer from the Mornington Peninsula.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC BUILDS)

He's the most unlikely of ninjas.

Oh, dear.

But this season, Charlie Robbins has defied the odds.

Don't be fooled by his outfit, or his glasses, or his ginger hair.

This lad's getting to the top.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC BUILDS)

Well, maybe not. (LAUGHS) Maybe not.

Blitzing his way through the course!

Who'd have thought? Look at him go!

What are we watching right now?

What are we witnessing?

We're seeing an underdog moving into top dog category.

Oh, he can do anything.

Now it's the grand final,

and the question is, can he go all the way?

There's so many awesome ninjas out there.

It's gonna be pretty tough to beat all those guys,

but, yeah, if I got the prize money,

I'd probably buy some new glasses,

'cause these ones are a bit broken and they don't sit very well.

Here he is - the best dressed on show.

Charlie Robbins. Oh, he's... oh, hang on!

He's taken his hat off.

I'm no stranger to a flat cap, north of England.

Thank you, Charlie!

Charlie Robbins was second in his semifinal

to Alex Matthews.

No disgrace in that, coming second to the Mo.

And there's his mum and dad and grandma down there with Taffy!

There's Taffy.

They'll be just as nervous as Charlie.

The second youngest competing in the grand final

of season three of Australian Ninja Warrior.

A reminder - $100,000 on the line for the most successful ninja.

$300,000 if you get to the top of Mount Midoriyama.

And what a transformation this would be for Charlie Robbins.

A scratch golfer turned full blown ninja.

3:15 on the clock. (CHIME SOUNDS)

Nine obstacles in his way, and Charlie Robbins rips in,

and now he's gotta deal with this thing called the Propeller.

Hangs on, let's go, and he's off. Oh, play for the night!

Charlie Robbins is Superman!

Hello? How did he do that?

No idea. Straight through to the Spinning Log.

This is phenomenal.

We can't even keep up in the commentary booth here.

He's going so quick.

He's already completed obstacle number four.

Oh, my goodness me!

And he's done it in 25 seconds,

which is ten faster than Daniel Mason.

I'm just worried that he's going too quick, Ben,

but it looks like Charlie wants top space.

You've got this! Come on!

Is he gonna be swinging his way into the grand finals too?

Well, time is just not a problem.

Still 2:30, as he comes down and just sprints up the Warped Wall.

Yes!

And if you're not off your couch,

dancing around your living room right now,

there's something wrong with you,

because what you are seeing on your screens

is a young man who could make history.

So quick!

He's now 18 seconds faster than the Barefoot Ninja.

Focus! Focus! Focus!

Needs to focus. Three more obstacles.

Get it, mate! Get it!

He's now halfway through the Hinge.

Focus, Charlie! Focus!

And he's got 2:00 on the clock, and what about the strategy?

Just reaching one foot out,

making sure that he gets the grip, and he's done.

Safe to say this is one of the most competitive ninjas

we've ever seen in three series of Australian Ninja Warrior.

Well, we thought he was good.

But I don't think anyone thought he was this good.

Two obstacles left. Breathe, mate!

Oh, his right foot slipped there a little bit!

He was struggling, but he gets the grip and now he's moving.

Talk about moving, Ben.

Charlie Robbins is on track to be the fastest of the night.

This is absolutely incredible from the golfer.

Daniel Mason finished with 52 seconds left on the clock.

You can see that it's hurting him now.

He's slowing down, but Charlie Robbins, he's blowing everyone away,

and now he's on his way to stage two of the Ninja Warrior grand final!

And he's almost at the top now, poking his head through the hole.

More than a minute left on the clock!

This is extraordinary! How good is he?!

Hand on the buzzer! Yes!

Charlie Robbins, this will be a night you will never forget

He is the fastest by ten seconds! What a champ!

He had 3:15 to complete nine obstacles

against the best in the country.

He's done it with 1:02 left on the clock.

He's a world beater.

Listen to that crowd, Charlie Robbins! They love you!

Soak it up, you little legend.

Well, that was mind-blowing.

The very best ninjas are performing at their best,

and Charlie has shown himself to be even better,

and many are wondering, how does a golfer do what Charlie's done?

Ten seconds faster than Daniel Mason.

More than 20 seconds faster than Bryson Klein.

The question is, can anyone catch Charlie Robbins?

Come here, you, come here. Have some water.

Well, I think your grandad there, Taffy, says it all.

He's so proud of you.

Where have you come from? How'd you do it?

I've got so many questions. Um, I don't know.

I was pretty knackered towards the end. I knew I was gonna be.

I had to take a bit of a rest before the spider wall,

'cause I was pretty tired.

I don't run that often, 'cause I play golf -

it's just, like, walking around.

So, I'm not used to this, but, yeah, it was good.

Well, whatever you're doing is working.

There's your cap back. Well done, Charlie. Well done, mate.

Well done, mate!

I would like to be a part of Charlie's family.

Everybody is brilliant! (LAUGHTER)

I tell you who is brilliant, and that is Charlie Robbins.

BEN: Brilliant, no doubt,

but there's brilliance still to come

with one of the biggest match-ups of all.

I've been sort of, yeah, rivalled with everyone, I think.

With a minimum $100,000 on the line...

Me and Rob.

..the biggest name in ninja is out to prove he is still the best.

I'm not buying into it.

I'm just gonna try and beat the clock.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC BUILDS)

BEN: Welcome back to stage one of the grand final

of Australian Ninja Warrior 2019,

where the battle against the course

is matched by the battle between ninjas

for the fastest time tonight.

Charlie Robbins remains in top spot

after two more high-fliers tackled the course over the break.

REBECCA: Charlie Robbins is Superman.

Ashlin Herbert's best mate completed the course,

but was 17 seconds slower than Charlie.

He is Zak Stolz, and he's now into stage two!

(KLAXON BLARES)

And last year's furthest fastest Rob Patterson

wanted to lay down a marker for Ashlin Herbert.

Tonight, even he couldn't beat Charlie,

finishing two seconds behind,

but through to stage two to fight another day.

There's the fireworks!

And now we're down to our final competitor of the night.

One of the absolute ninja superstars

who has inspired a legion of fans.

Yeah, he was the fastest in his semi.

The one the other ninjas all wanna beat.

Over the last two seasons,

he's consistently been the fastest of them all,

only to fall short.

Can Flashlin Ashlin Herbert

make another grand final stage two?

Here he comes - the fastest ninja of 2019.

We know how good Ashlin Herbert is,

but he can make mistakes, especially in grand finals.

He is the one everyone's talking about, Ashlin Herbert.

He is Flashlin Herbert, the man who's the fastest.

Everything he does, he goes hard, he goes quick.

Flashlin! Flashlin!

His fellow ninja mates, Zak and Dirt, watch on,

and Zak already booked his place in stage two earlier.

Charlie Robbins' time to beat is 1:02 left on the clock.

And you'll have to really keep your eye on Ashlin Herbert here.

He does not blink, he does not wait.

Oh, look at that! Have a look at that!

Absolutely perfect!

Don't blink, don't move your eyeballs from your TV screen.

This guy could go all the way up Mount Midoriyama.

Ashlin Herbert already nearly finished

on the Swinging Cliff Hanger.

Oh, he has finished it. Now he's onto the Wing Nuts.

He had trouble on this obstacle in last year's grand final,

but he looks confident tonight.

Just moving on to the second Nut.

And he won't waste too much time before transitioning to the next.

There he goes, straight away, and off,

ad now he's got the Warped Wall in his sights,

and he's up without breaking a stride.

Only 45 seconds gone.

This is astonishing, Ben.

He's six seconds inside the fastest time of the night

set by Charlie Robbins.

This guy is making this course look like a child's playground.

Here he goes now. He is onto the Hinge, the first panel.

Almost there. Swings around.

Look at him - so cool and calm.

Now, when Charlie Robbins completed this course,

there was 1:02 left on the clock.

Ashlin's got two minutes left,

but he needs to concentrate on the spider jump.

Ohh, Ashlin!

Wasn't a perfect landing,

but he is powering his way through the corridor now.

There's 1:50 left on the clock!

He's laying the law down!

He's saying to all these ninjas, "Catch me if you can!"

But at this stage, no-one's catching him.

Come on, Ash! Look at this!

It seemed unbelievable that anyone could beat Charlie Robbins' time,

but he's doing just that, Ashlin Herbert.

This is phenomenal!

Wow!

And now he's pressing the buzzer.

Oh, my word! Does it with his head.

1:32 left on the clock.

Take a bow, Ashlin Herbert!

He doesn't hesitate, he doesn't overthink what he's going to do.

He just does it,

and he finishes stage one

30 seconds faster than Charlie Robbins.

How do you compete with that?

This is the man to beat. You're watching him right now.

Flashlin Ashlin Herbert.

We've said it before, we'll say it again.

Ashlin first, daylight second.

Running the course on instinct and raw talent,

he was a full 30 seconds ahead of a flying Charlie Robbins.

And over 32 seconds ahead of Rob Patterson.

Ashlin Herbert - furthest and fastest once again.

(TRIUMPHANT MUSIC)

He certainly stepped it up again tonight

and showed once more, when it comes to pure speed,

he is still the one to beat.

And you've gotta say, based on that performance,

he looks even better than season one and two.

He's sent a real message tonight, including to that bloke.

Well, what an incredible run

on this first night of our season three grand final.

Haven't we had some thrilling moments?

And then ninjas who fell short of their expectations

to go all the way.

Let's check the leaderboard and see who has progressed into stage two.

Flashlin Ashlin,

with the fastest time of stage one,

completing all nine obstacles

with 1:32 remaining.

He looks like a golfer,

swings like a ninja.

Charlie Robbins finishes

30 seconds behind,

followed by Rob Patterson,

the Barefoot Ninja, Daniel Mason,

and Alex 'the Mo' Matthews.

Also making it to stage two:

And the 11th and final ninja to qualify is Ryan Solomon,

with six seconds left on the clock.

(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)

There they are now.

A brilliant effort by those ninjas who ripped through tonight's course.

I can't wait to find out who can rise to the challenge

of the next two stages.

Can someone create history and go all the way up Mount Midoriyama?

We'll see you tomorrow night

for the conclusion of the Australian Ninja Warrior grand final.

Goodnight! Goodnight!

Goodnight.

(TRIUMPHANT MUSIC SWELLS)

Tomorrow night,

Australia's best 11 ninjas

face the ultimate challenge,

and a winner will be named.

For the furthest fastest, $100,000,

but will anyone make history and defeat Mount Midoriyama

to become Australia's first Ninja Warrior?