Libertyville Teen Takes On ‘American Ninja Warrior’ As Suburban Athletes Advance

LIBERTYVILLE, IL — A Libertyville teenager is among a group of suburban Chicago competitors testing their strength and endurance during the newest season of American Ninja Warrior, according to media reports.

Kenzie Hughes, 16, advanced to the show’s regional finals after earning her first buzzer during the episode that aired Monday, July 27. Hughes previously competed on Season 17 but was eliminated during the qualifying round after the third obstacle, according to Pioneer Press.

Four suburban Chicago competitors remain in the competition after the qualifying rounds, including Hughes, Wilmette’s Steven Bachta, Aurora’s Maggie Owen and Naperville’s Andrew Pickert, according to the article.

Two other suburban competitors — Elgin gymnast Gabi Stephen and Joliet construction worker Michael Maher — did not advance from the qualifying rounds, according to the article. The remaining suburban ninjas will now compete against the other athletes who advanced from across the country as Season 18 moves toward the finals.

The next episode of American Ninja Warrior airs Monday, Aug. 3, at 8 p.m. on NBC.

More via Pioneer Press.