Photo courtesy of American Lung Association in Ohio
Step Up
Stair-climbing race helps fight lung disease
Another local wintertime fundraiser is all about ascent.
The Fight for Air Climb, benefiting the American Lung Association, will take place Feb. 20 at the Rhodes Tower in downtown Columbus.
Since 2006, the Fight for Air program has raised more than $43 million nationwide. The local climb began six years ago, and the 2016 Columbus fundraising goal is $74,000, an increase from 2015’s $62,000.
Approximately 400 participants will climb the 41 stories of the Rhodes Tower in groups of 20, starting in 10-15 minute increments.
“We like to call it the hottest event in Columbus for the winter,” says Brittany Sinzinger, development manager for the local ALA chapter.
Photo courtesy of American Lung Association in Ohio
Step Up
Sinzinger’s son Matthew has asthma, which is what initially drew her to the association. Last year, Matthew, at age 7, made the climb himself, clocking in at 8:38 for his first attempt.
“The cardio involved is almost as intense, we say, as doing a half marathon,” Sinzinger says.
The ALA works to support research, smoking cessation, air quality and awareness of lung-related ailments.
Visit www.climbcolumbus.com to learn more.
Garth Bishop is managing editor. Feedback welcome at gbishop@cityscenemediagroup.com.
