By Marla Jones, Sports Editor • marla@southerntorch.com

Lynchburg, Va. — In May, when Aubriella Hairston left the sixth grade at Plainview, she was a All-American girl.  When she walks into school this week, she will be a seventh grader and a Ninja Princess. 

Summer is usually a time to sleep late, swim at the pool or hang out with friends, but not for Hairston. She started the summer off participating in the first ever Ninja Challenge at the Alabama State Games. She showed up and showed out, winning the Kids’ Division. 

The win at the Alabama State games made Hairston the Regional Qualifier to advance to the Ultimate Ninja Athletic Association (UNAA) World Series Championship in Mystic Lake, Mo. this July where she placed 24th in a league of over 100. 

Last week, Hairston attended the 2019 State Games of America at Liberty University. Ninjas from all over the country were there to participate. She ran in the 13 and under division, ending with the fastest time and the gold medal. 

All the hard work has paid off for Hairston. It was announced that due to her outstanding performances over the summer, she will be competing on Season 2 of America Ninja Warrior Junior coming soon to Universal Kids. 

Aubriella is the daughter of Royce Chris Hairston and Rhea Armstrong Krueger.