American Ninja Warrior replaces horses in Olympic modern pentathlon in 2028 – Chicago Tribune

In a surprising turn of events, the modern pentathlon at the Olympics is set to undergo a major change in 2028. The traditional event, which has been a staple of the Games since its inception in 1912, will no longer feature horse riding as one of its disciplines. Instead, the popular television show „American Ninja Warrior“ will be incorporated into the competition, marking a significant shift in the sport’s format.

The modern pentathlon is a unique event that combines five different disciplines: fencing, swimming, equestrian show jumping, pistol shooting, and cross-country running. Athletes are required to compete in each of these disciplines over the course of a single day, testing their skills in a variety of physical and mental challenges. However, the inclusion of horse riding has long been a point of contention within the sport, with many critics arguing that it is an outdated and potentially dangerous element.

The decision to remove horse riding from the modern pentathlon was made by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in an effort to modernize the event and attract a wider audience. By replacing it with „American Ninja Warrior,“ a popular television show that features contestants tackling a series of challenging obstacle courses, the IOC hopes to appeal to a younger demographic and increase the sport’s appeal on a global scale.

While some traditionalists may lament the loss of horse riding from the modern pentathlon, others see it as a necessary step towards ensuring the event’s continued relevance in the modern sporting landscape. By incorporating elements of popular culture and entertainment, the IOC is taking a bold step towards reimagining the sport for a new generation of athletes and fans.

The inclusion of „American Ninja Warrior“ in the modern pentathlon is sure to bring a fresh and exciting dynamic to the event. Contestants will be tested not only on their physical abilities, but also on their agility, strength, and mental fortitude as they navigate through a series of challenging obstacles. This new format promises to be a thrilling and action-packed addition to the Olympic Games, capturing the attention of viewers around the world.

Overall, the decision to replace horse riding with „American Ninja Warrior“ in the modern pentathlon represents a bold and innovative move by the IOC. While it may be met with some resistance from traditionalists, it is ultimately a step towards modernizing the sport and ensuring its continued relevance in the ever-evolving world of athletics. As we look ahead to the 2028 Olympics, it will be fascinating to see how this new format unfolds and how it impacts the future of the modern pentathlon.