In the championship round, tougher obstacles and new point thrusters test the nine winners as they pursue the "Ultimate Beastmaster" title.

For the first time, athletes from China, France, India, Italy and Spain join Americans to face off with the Beast for a $10,000 prize.

One contestant fights through a hard impact -- and a few stitches -- to get through Level 1. Competitors include a youth leader and a pole dancer.