On Friday 5 August 2016, 100 teams from around the country will face the gruelling prospect of running up 1,103 stairs of New Zealand’s tallest building, the Sky Tower. This will be the only opportunity corporates and the wider community get to race up the arduous 51 flights of stairs in the iconic Auckland building. While this will not be an easy feat for the participants, the money raised will be going towards a worthy cause.
The 500 people stepping up to the challenge will raise funds for Leukaemia and Blood Cancer New Zealand. On average, six New Zealanders are diagnosed with blood cancer every day. It can strike anyone, of any age, at any time, without warning. A diagnosis is life changing and its causes are unknown. Leukaemia is the most common childhood cancer and there are an estimated 10,000 people living with blood cancer or a related condition in New Zealand.
Leukaemia and Blood Cancer New Zealand (LBC) is a charity that helps improve the quality of life for patients and their families living with leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma, and related blood conditions. LBC does not receive government funding and its work is made possible through fundraising events and support from individuals, companies, trusts and grants.
Over $345,000 was raised at last year’s event, setting a new record. Participants came from all walks of life with members of St John and the police wearing full work uniforms for the climb. The average climber completed the challenge in around 12 minutes, while some ‘summited’ in as little as six.
For Fitbit Ambassador Art Green it will the second time he’ll face the challenge. “My lungs were burning at the end of it and I remember experiencing a new found appreciation for elevators,” he says. “First tip is to pace yourselves. I thought I could run the whole way but after a few flights my run turned into a fast walk. Using the handrails to pull yourself up will help minimise the burning in your legs and it’s important to train. Stairs are best but another great option is a steep hill.”
You can help support the event by making a donation here. We’ll see you at the top. Fitbit is proudly returning as a sponsor of the Sky Tower Stair Challenge for the second year running.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or condition. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, altering your sleep habits, taking supplements, or starting a new fitness routine.
Astrid V.
Astrid Vala is passionate about helping Fitbit users find their fit, and has built a career advocating for healthy living and human kindness for Aussies, Kiwis, and everyone around the globe. She lives in Melbourne, Australia, and enjoys being active, traveling, and spending time with her friends and family.
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