Despite the age and the traditions of the Olympic Games, they are an ever changing entity. New events are added and older ones are removed over time. This is nothing Earth shattering, it’s part of how the games stay relevant. Speaking of which, when was the last time you heard someone speak of the Modern Pentathlon? Exactly. You haven’t. Until today that is, because it’s adding elements directly from Ninja Warrior into it.
What the Hell is the Pentathlon?
The Modern Pentathlon is not an event that you probably think much about in the summer games. It’s a combination of various events. Specifically it was fencing, swimming, equestrian show jumping, shooting, and cross country running. Seems like an odd combination, especially that show jumping part. Four skill sets that are reliant entirely upon the athlete and one that uses a horse? Weird. Well, starting in 2026 the horses are out and the ninjas are in.
Back in 1997 the Tokyo Broadcasting System started airing Sasuke. The show would later come to America on the G4 network, rebranded as Ninja Warrior. The show features contestants having to work through various obstacles, most of which are tests of agility and upper body strength. It became popular enough through its initial broadcasts that Americans started competing in the Japanese event before an official American version was launched.
Obstacle Racing & The Olympics
The Union Internationale de Pentathlon Moderne has partnered with Tokyo Broadcasting System to officially license obstacle designs for the upcoming Olympics. It’s not being called “Ninja Warrior” though. The official term for that section of the pentathlon is “obstacle racing.” It’s not only a big win for that style of competition, it’s a huge win for the pentathlon. This is a shot in the arm that it needs to have relevance in today’s world.
We look forward to seeing what the course layout will be when the Summer Olympic Games comes to Los Angeles in 2028.
