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Keen to climb all way to top

NINJA Warrior Australia returned to our screens on Sunday night with mind-blowing new obstacles at Sydney Olympic Park and the dark shadow of Mt Midoriyama looming over the hopes of the new line-up after being conquered for the first time in Australian history by Ben Polson last season.

And this year, daunting Mt Midoriyama wants revenge, returning bigger and more threatening than ever.
Among the more than 200 contestants seeking to be crowned champion and win $100,000, Homebush resident Jeffrey Mercado is a frontline worker and used to working in high stress situations.
After debuting in season two, Jeffrey says season five obstacles are definitely tougher, with 26 exciting more additions to the course including the lung-busting Underwater Escape and forearm-destroying Dragon’s Back.
Scaling the Warped Wall has become even more challenging with the obstacle now 10cm higher.
“I am competing against professional sports people and ex-Olympians, so you need to have a strong body and mind,” Jeffrey said.
“I have been involved in sports the majority of my life. I have continued to maintain my physical health, which also plays a huge part in maintaining mental health.
“I am also fortunate enough to have been blessed with good genetics. I am 185cm tall (6’1″) with nearly a two-metre wing span and have developed a strong handgrip of 80-90kg.
“This definitely helps me when facing the challenging obstacles of ninja warrior.”
Jeffrey says his motivation is to inspire people and share his story.
“I am lucky enough to be surrounded by friends and family that will always be supportive of me no matter the outcome of my run,” he said.
Catch Ninja Warrior Australia on Channel Nine or 9Now on Sundays from 7pm.