“American Ninja Warrior” champion he is not, but one thing is for certain, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission recruiter Ron “Dynamite” Washington is a fierce competitor.
“I’m just explosive when it comes to starting competitions. I don’t start off slow and cautious, I just leave it all out there and go for it,” said Washington of his latest run on American Ninja Warrior.
That “going for it” drive took Washington all the way to the finals on the gravity-defying, reality television show on NBC. An obstacle called the spider wall finally did the 28-year-old in.
“You just overlook one little detail, drying your feet, and the next thing you know you’re in the water.”
As his wife, Gabby, and other family members cheered from the audience, the FWC officer lost his footing and his chance at nabbing a $1 million dollar grand prize. Washington’s final show of the season aired on Aug. 15, but this competition was taped back in May in Las Vegas.
“Now that the season is airing, it’s kind of like opening up old scars. I’m not traumatized by it, but it is painful to watch.”
Washington has been with FWC for eight years and became a recruiter for the wildlife agency at the beginning of this year. He recruits candidates for positions in Naples, Miami and the Keys. Washington’s co-workers got a kick out of watching him jump, crawl, run and swing his way through a labyrinth of daunting obstacles. After the final episode, Washington received a little ribbing.
“They hardball you. They’re like, ‘Man, you’re still falling in that water, you can’t get that million dollars.’”
Washington knows it’s just good-natured teasing.
“They’re just happy to see someone who wears the same uniform as them represented on national TV like that.”
Washington’s journey with “American Ninja Warrior” started several years ago. He was first invited on the show in 2016.
“I had shirts made, had my whole family come out; they flew to Atlanta to watch me compete and I didn’t make it past the qualifiers,” recounted Washington.
The South Florida native did not give up. In 2020, he advanced to the national finals and did it again this year. It’s quite the accomplishment.
“Out of 400 people who even get a shot at the Ninja Warrior course, to make it in the national finals of only 90 people, I am proud of myself. I’ve got to keep it in perspective. Not have such an ego.”
The father of an 18-month-old son credits a consistent workout routine and healthy eating choices for his success. He spends about an hour every morning exercising, including committing to an extra 20 minutes a day of compression therapy and stretching. About twice a week he works out at a Ninja gym in Miramar. And he watches what he eats.
“I try my best to eat balanced meals that complement my workout regime. Of course there are some days where I reach for the junk food and I miss a workout for a day (or two) but I never stray too far from living a disciplined and healthy lifestyle.”
Although Washington did not complete the final Ninja course, he plans to take another shot at it next year.
“I have a good relationship with the producers. They like me, they like my energy and my attitude and my profession. I might as well keep it going until they’re tired of me,” said Washington with a laugh.
For now, it’s back to his day job as an FWC recruiter.If you’re interested in an exciting career with FWC, contact Washington. FWC is accepting applications for officers until Sept. 1. Call 786-385-2098 or email Ronald.Washington@myfwc.com.
