Climbers staring at tall task in Oakbrook Terrace

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Updated: March 11, 2012 8:08AM

The 2012 Fight for Air Climb is taking place Sunday at the Oakbrook Terrace Tower and it’s not too late to sign up as a team or individual.

Climbers can choose to scale the 31-story tower’s 680 steps once, twice or three times. Money raised from the climb will benefit the American Lung Association of Greater Chicago.

“We have people climbing with their kids, spouses and whole generations,” said Katie Lorenz, Lung Association communications manager. “It’s definitely a family event. You can take your time and go at your own pace. Some people just have the goal of finishing.

“Some people sign up as a new year’s resolution and a lot of people are just thrilled when they reach the top.”

Timing chips will keep track of individuals finishing; and results will be available in the lobby once each competitor has finished their trek up the tower.

The event will again feature competitions for first responders with many area fire and police departments competing to see who can reach the top first.

“Many firefighters participate in full fire gear,” Lorenz said. “We love the support of our first responders.

“Our top three current fund-raisers are either fire or police departments.”

North Riverside’s firefighters are the reigning champions of the climb and their $3,577.25 raised so far is tops among competitors.

The Lung Association’s 2012 goal is to raise $144,000; and runners so far have earned $77,330.65. The number is expected to rise as the climb date draws near.

New this year is a power hour, which allows climbers to run up the building as many times as they can within 60 minutes.

“People asked for it so we’re going to give it to them,” Lorenz said. “We have a set number of slots for the power hour so registration for that is limited.”

Individuals and teams can still sign up for the 2012 Fight for Air Climb at the Oakbrook Terrace Tower by visiting www.fightforairclimb.org or calling (312) 781-1100.

People can register in person on event day, but pre-registration is preferred.

The American Lung Association will conduct a similar event at the Chicago Presidential Towers on March 11.