Central Florida natives are making a strong showing on NBC’s American Ninja Warrior. Five competitors, including Olivia Lopez of Gotha, have advanced to the Eastern Regional Finals, showcasing their athleticism and determination.
Local Competitors
Lopez, who was 16 at the time of filming and recently turned 17, said her journey began in 2015 when she started watching the show with her grandmother, Dianne. Her training has been supported by her weightlifting coach and father, who encouraged her to try out for her school’s flag football team.
Lopez also balances her athletic pursuits with academics. She is one of five Central Florida competitors advancing to the next stage. Aaron Diehl, 15, from Windermere is the youngest local competitor. Grace Gordon, 16, from Orlando, was the fastest female competitor in her qualifier and completed the course without falling. Garrett Morris, 18, of Ocala earned a $10,000 bonus after successfully beating the Mega Wall in an earlier qualifier. Avery Glantz, 20, from Orlando, is in her fifth season competing while studying at the University of Central Florida.
Regional Finals
The Eastern Regional Finals of American Ninja Warrior air Monday, July 13 at 9 p.m. on NBC. Lopez’s goal is to keep moving on and make it to the national finals. She will be competing against two other girls in the regional finals.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
