San Juan, Mar 30 (efe-epa).- Personal trainer Joel Jovani Santiago Martinez will soon become the first Puerto Rican contestant to participate in the NBC television reality show "American Ninja Warrior."

Santiago Martinez, 42, told EFE on Friday, while training at the OCR Box PR fitness center in Hato Rey, that his youngest son had convinced him to participate in the event, which will take place in Miami from April 13-14.

Santiago Martinez, who is also a personal trainer at Hato Rey's YMCA, had registered to participate in last year's American Ninja Warrior, although he decided to withdraw his application because of work.

The Puerto Rican instructor registered again this year and included a video in his application showing the devastation caused by Hurricane Maria on the island last September and the difficulties he encountered to continue his training.

"It is with great pride that I will represent Puerto Rico at this event. When news breaks out, many of the show's fans and followers will be thrilled to know that a Puerto Rican is finally going to be participating," Santiago Martinez said.

In American Ninja Warrior, competitors face off to complete a series of obstacle courses, which include monkey bars, a rock climbing wall, a salmon ladder, as well as climbing a 70-ft. (21-meter) rope as fast as possible.

"You have to be very skilled. Many people think that obstacle courses are easy, but they require a lot of strength and energy. I cannot fail," he said, adding that his back-body strength is his greatest asset to complete the courses.

The Puerto Rican will join 400 other competitors in this year's edition of American Ninja Warrior.