9/11 GRAND STAIR CHALLENGE

The 9/11 Grand Stair Challenge is a unique event. Every year we meet at the foot of the Battle Mountain Grand Staircase, downtown Hot Springs, to climb the 141-step staircase with friends, neighbors and friends we have not met. Although we start climbing at 6:46 a.m., you may arrive any time after that. The Challenge Director will stay until the last climber is done.

FLIGHT OF SILENCE

9/11 GRAND STAIR CHALLENGE

At 6:46 a.m., the time of the first attack on the World Trade Towers, we begin with a Flight of Silence—one trip up and down equals one Flight.

LAST MAN CLIMBING

9/11 GRAND STAIR CHALLENGE

CLIMB IN REMEMBRANCE

15 laps is roughly equivalent to climbing up and down one of the

World Trade Towers. Consider challenging yourself to climb one or more 'towers." The record is 105 flights (more than five towers), held by Jeremy.

CLIMB IN REMEMBRANCE

CLIMB TO GET STRONGER

CLIMB IN REMEMBRANCE

The primary reason for this event is to remember the heroes and victims of 9/11; indeed, to remember the victims of terrorist attacks any time, any place.

CLIMB TO GET STRONGER

We believe that strong people build a strong country. We climb to strengthen ourselves in body, mind and spirit.

CLIMB FOR DOLLARS

CLIMB TO GET STRONGER

This event also serves as the primary fundraiser for Challenge Dakota; an anonymous donor gives Challenge $1.00 for every flight climbed.

LITTLE STEPS MEAN A LOT

Every time you complete one lap (up and down the 141 steps) Challenge receives $1.00.

WHAT, WHERE, WHEN, WHO?

WHWHAT?

Every year on September 11th we gather to climb the 141-step Battle Mountain Grand Staircase to climb as much as we are able. 15 flights (up and down) represent once up and down a World Trade Tower. Climb once, twice, as many times as you are able.

We climb in remembrance.

We climb to Get Strong.

We climb as much as we are able.

We climb until we need to leave for work or school.

We climb to support Challenge Dakota.

WHERE?

Outside the Goldenwest offices at 1510 National, Hot Springs, SD, at the foot of the staircase.

WHEN?

Friday, September 11

6:00 a.m.: Sign in begins

6:15 a.m.: Program begins (approximately)

6:46 a.m.: Flight of Silence—when 11 climbers, led by a flag bearer, have climbed up and down the staircase once, the silence ends with the singing of the national anthem and climbers are then free to speak and enjoy the camaraderie of their fellow climbers.

If you cannot get there by 6:46, come when you can. Climbers must sign a waiver, but there is no charge for this event. The challenge director will stay until the last climber finishes; in recent years this has been mid-afternoon, but each year is different. If you arrive before the director leaves, she will stay and support you until you are done climbing.

WHO?

This event is for all ages and abilities. If you are not sure you can climb, give it a try! Your well-behaved, leashed dog is welcome. Minors must have the signature of a guardian. As we get closer to the event we will provide a link to download the contract so that you can send it with the minor child. Questions? info@ChallengeDakota.com or 605-890-1515.

Non-climbers are encouraged to join us to share in remembrance and to support those who climb with your enthusiasm and admiration.

“If you think you can, or you think you can’t, you’re right.”

Henry Ford