Fast-growing obstacle sport headed for the Olympics comes to Gretna as athletes compete in Louisiana’s State Ninja Championship
GRETNA — Athletes from across the region will test their strength, speed and agility at the 2026 Louisiana Governor’s Games State Ninja Championship on Saturday, March 14, at Crescent City Ninja Academy in Gretna.
The competition, open to ages 6 and up, will feature athletes racing through a challenging obstacle course inspired by the sport made famous by American Ninja Warrior. Competitors attempt each obstacle twice, with winners determined by who gets the furthest, fastest and with the fewest retries.
“This sport pushes people to challenge themselves in ways they never expected,” said Terry England, co-founder of Crescent City Ninja Academy. “We’ve watched kids and adults build confidence, strength and resilience through ninja training. Hosting the Governor’s Games here is an exciting way to introduce more people to the sport.”
Top finishers will earn ranking points in the World Ninja League, with the top six athletes qualifying for South-Central Regionals and the top three earning a direct spot at the WNL Tier 1 World Finals in North Carolina.
Crescent City Ninja Academy, located at 1539 Lafayette St. in Gretna, is Louisiana’s only dedicated ninja and obstacle training facility and one of the largest ninja gyms along the Gulf Coast.
“Our goal has always been to grow the ninja community and give people of all ages a place to challenge themselves,” said Tara England, co-founder of the academy. “Events like this bring athletes together and show just how exciting and accessible the sport can be.”
Obstacle course racing continues to grow rapidly worldwide and is expected to make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles.
Event details
Louisiana Governor’s Games State Ninja Championship
Saturday, March 14, 2026
Crescent City Ninja Academy
1539 Lafayette St.
Gretna, La.
A head-to-head competition will follow on Sunday, March 15.
More information and registration: www.crescentcityninjas.com