Mark and Heather's story began with their own journeys into the sport and community of Ninja Warrior. Though they both knew of each other and had met in passing at regional ninja competitions, they did not have much opportunity to interact since Heather lived in Massachusetts and Mark lived in New Jersey. However, one fateful Labor Day weekend in 2018, Heather, Mark and a few other ninja friends were scheduled to hang out in New Jersey for the holiday weekend to surf, rock climb, and ninja. Heather took an overnight train down to Trenton, NJ and found out while on the train that everyone else except for Mark was no longer able to make the trip. Heather was committed already at that point, and asked Mark if he would still pick her up and hang out. This turned into a 4-day long date where both realized there was something between them. To this day, Mark and Heather both lovingly disagree about who said the words "you are good for my soul" first as Heather was dropped back off at the train station at the end of the weekend. The two quickly realized they had no idea how a long-distance relationship would work seeing as both worked long hours and they lived in different states. Heather was even more skeptical as she had sworn she wouldn't do long distance nor did she want to date anyone, let alone a fellow ninja. It all changed, however, when Mark decided "last minute" that he would compete in a ninja competition in Boston two weeks later and asked Heather if they could see each other again. Heather agreed but set strict ground rules that they were "fellow competitors" at this competition and that he was not to hold her hand or show any sort of affection. Mark claims that the forces that be were too strong though and he couldn't help but give her a good luck kiss before her run.... right in front of everyone. :) It was a week later that Heather called Mark and started sobbing saying she loved him and that it was too soon but she just knew he was the one. Mark shares the same name as Heather's step-dad who passed away a few years prior, and she felt this was a gift from God to be sent such a genuine, humble, and well-loved man when she was least expecting it. Mark and Heather spent 2.5 years in a long-distance relationship (thanks Covid) before finally being able to live in the same state and have been inseparable ever since. They continue to share the passion of ninja, having competed together in Season 14 and a special couples edition, as well as enjoy scuba diving, rock climbing, surfing, and all things travel. Most importantly, they both dearly love their two cats- Oliver and Sendy. :)