Where is ‘American Ninja Warrior’ Season 15 winner Vance Walker now? ‘Texas ninja’ recalls eight years long struggle for victory on NBC show

Currently, Vance is committed to continuing his career in 'American Ninja Warrior'
PUBLISHED MAY 31, 2024
Vance Walker won ANW Season 15 (Instagram/@vancewalker)
Vance Walker won ANW Season 15 (Instagram/@vancewalker)

TAMPA, FLORIDA: Vance Walker, the Season 15 winner of 'American Ninja Warrior', is living in Tampa, Florida, where he continues to train and compete. Originally from Texas, Vance's journey to victory on the NBC show was marked by determination and perseverance. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy as a child, doctors predicted he would never walk without leg braces, let alone participate in sports. However, Vance defied the odds through relentless training and passion for the sport.

Vance's interest in 'American Ninja Warrior' began when he was a child, and he quickly became a standout competitor, winning the first two seasons of 'American Ninja Warrior Junior'. His dedication to the sport saw him facing significant challenges, especially in Season 14, where he fell on every course he attempted. This experience was a humbling setback, but it also served as a pivotal learning moment.


 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by Vance Walker (@vance_walker_anw)


 

Determined to improve, Vance moved to Tampa and began training with the Bergstrom family, focusing on both his physical skills and mental approach to the competition. This change in environment and mindset paid off spectacularly in Season 15, where he completed the final rope climb in 26.75 seconds, becoming only the third person in the show's history to win the $1 million prize.

Currently, Vance is committed to continuing his career in 'American Ninja Warrior'. He plans to compete in future seasons, aiming to win more titles and further solidify his place in the sport. 

Vance Walker was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy 

Vance Walker, diagnosed with cerebral palsy as a child and told he would never walk without leg braces or play sports, defied the odds through relentless exercise and determination. His passion for 'American Ninja Warrior' ignited during Season 6, leading him to train at a local gym and quickly excel under the guidance of Brett Sims.

Despite early successes in 'American Ninja Warrior Junior', where he won the first two seasons, Vance faced setbacks in Season 14, falling on every course. This period taught him resilience, prompting a move to Tampa to refocus his training and mindset. 

Now residing in Texas, Vance remains active in the Ninja community, sharing his expertise and preparing for Season 16, while his journey from overcoming medical challenges to achieving Ninja Warrior success serves as an inspiration to many.


 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by Vance Walker (@vance_walker_anw)


 

Vance Walker faces setback on 'America Ninja Warrior' Season 14

In 'American Ninja Warrior' Season 14, Vance Walker, previously known for his impressive performance in earlier seasons and as a standout in 'American Ninja Warrior Junior', faced a significant setback. Despite his strong track record, Vance encountered unexpected challenges throughout the season. During Season 14, he fell on every course he attempted, a sharp contrast to his earlier successes where he rarely made mistakes.

These falls were not only physical setbacks but also mentally taxing. The difficulties he faced during this season marked a turning point in his journey. Vance had to grapple with the disappointment of not living up to his own expectations and the expectations of his fans. This period of struggle forced him to reassess his approach and mindset towards the competition.

Recognizing the need for a change, Vance relocated to Tampa and started training with the Bergstrom family, focusing on refining his skills and enjoying the sport again rather than just aiming to win. This experience ultimately became a crucial learning phase that prepared him for his remarkable comeback in Season 15, where he triumphed and achieved total victory, winning the $1 million prize.


 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by Vance Walker (@vance_walker_anw)


 

RELATED TOPICS AMERICAN NINJA WARRIOR (2009)

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