Local favorites and rising rookie compete on American Ninja Warrior season 17

HoustonAmerican Ninja Warrior Season 17 is bigger and bolder, and three standout competitors with Houston ties are making serious waves.

Houston Life caught up with Daniel Gil, Grant Kiningham, and Leo Heuring about their journey and what it really takes to conquer the course.

Fan favorite Daniel Gil, known as “The Kingdom Ninja,” returned with his trademark power, positivity, and great hair. He has been competing in ANW since season 7 and a lot has changed. The 31-one-year old is a proud dad to his 18-month-old, Isla with baby number two on the way!

Daniel Gil with wide Abby and daughter Isla and ANW season 17 hosts Matt Iseman and Akbar Gbaja-Biamila (Copyright 2025 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.)
AMERICAN NINJA WARRIOR -- "Qualifiers 1” Episode 1701 -- Pictured: Daniel Gil -- (Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC) (2024 NBCUniversal Media, LLC)

He’s joined by Grant Kiningham, back for his third season and fresh off hitting the buzzer. Kiningham is still working for Houston Ice Designs, supplying many events in H-Town with beautiful and thought-out ice sculptures. Now, 23, he’s showing no signs of slowing down.

Grant Kiningham and ANW season 17 hosts Matt Iseman and Akbar Gbaja-Biamila (Copyright 2025 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.)
AMERICAN NINJA WARRIOR -- "Qualifiers 1" Episode 1701 -- Pictured: Grant Kiningham -- (Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC) (2024 NBCUniversal Media, LLC)

Both Gil and Kiningham are Houston Life alums. Finally, Leo Heuring, the 19-year-old rookie is changing what it means to compete with dyslexia. Nicknamed “The Dyslexic Ninja,” Leo has turned his love of problem-solving into a serious competitive edge.

Grant Kiningham and Leo Heuring on ANW season 17 (Copyright 2025 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.)
AMERICAN NINJA WARRIOR -- "Qualifiers 1” Episode 1701 -- Pictured: Leo Heuring -- (Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC) (2024 NBCUniversal Media, LLC)

This season of ANW features major changes, including a return to classic obstacles, themed rounds like “Wildest Wipeouts,” and a brand-new head-to-head championship format. With $250,000 on the line, the competition has never been more inspiring.

Daniel Gil, Grant Kiningham, and Leo Heuring of ANW Season 17 (Copyright 2025 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.)