Participants march up the stairs of Swanson Stadium on Sunday, Sept. 10, 2023, during the Hero Climb to benefit The Greg Lindmark Foundation in Rockford. (Photo by Kevin Haas/Rock River Current)
By Adrienne Shindledecker and Kevin Haas
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — The annual Hero Climb to honor first responders and raise money for The Greg Lindmark Foundation is returning for its third year later this summer.

The climb challenges participants to trek up and down flights and stairs at Guilford High School’s Swanson Stadium in remembrance of the men and women who responded to the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks at the World Trade Center.

This year’s event takes place on Sunday, Sept. 8, and a portion of the proceeds benefit The Greg Lindmark Foundation, a nonprofit that raises awareness and helps connect first responders to the support they need for their emotional well-being and mental health.

Here’s a look at key figures behind the annual challenge:

110 flights of stairs to be climbed in recognition of the 110 stories of the World Trade Center buildings

2,200 steps is the equivalent of 110 stories

2 hours on average to complete the Hero Climb

53 steps from the bottom to the top of the bleachers

42 trips up the stairs to reach 110 flights up (21 trips up and down is equivalent)

1,342 average calories burnt to complete the Hero Climb (based on American Council on Exercise estimates for a person weighing 185 pounds and completing the event in 2 hours)

8 recommended laps around the track for those who choose to walk instead of climb

Sign up | Hero Climb 2024

When: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 8

Where:  Swanson Stadium at Guilford High School, 5620 Spring Creek Road, Rockford

Cost: $25

Register: Go HERE

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