Columbus woman Jenn Sanders competes on season premiere of 'American Ninja Warrior'
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — NBC's "American Ninja Warrior" began its 16th season Monday night and Jenn Sanders from Columbus returned for her fourth time on the premiere episode.
Jennifer Stefano-Sanders began competing on 'ANW' in 2020 as Jennifer Stefano before marrying fellow "ANW" Ryan Sanders. She has now competed in Seasons 12, 13, 14 and 16.
Previous to last night's run her appearance in 2022 was her best. That year she advanced to the show's semifinals for the first time by placing fifth among the women and 29th overall making it into the top 30.
Originally from Pennsylvania, Stefano-Sanders told NBC4 in an email that her "ANW" journey began in a very DIY way seven years ago.
"My husband and I built obstacles in his backyard to train until a gym in Erie, PA opened and we helped run the ninja program there," Stefano-Sanders wrote.
Stefano-Sanders now lives in Columbus and works at Movement Lab Ohio (MLAB), a gym that is a ninja warrior and parkour training facility for all ages. As the MLAB site manager, Stefano-Sanders works and trains alongside several veteran ninja warriors, including her husband.
"... We love training together," Stefano-Sanders told NBC4 about her spouse. "He is my biggest supporter and the best coach!"
On Monday's episode, she came to the course dressed like a butterfly which was fitting, as she floated through the first few obstacles before splashing down during the "Ring The Bells" challenge. Her time was 2:21.08.
Fortunately, the 24-year-old went far and fast enough to qualify for the semifinals for another opportunity to compete on TV and a shot at the $1 million prize.
Watch "American Ninja Warriors" on Monday nights at 8 p.m. on NBC4.