Tunnel to Towers Arena Climb - Somerset, NJ

What is a Tunnel to Towers Climb?

The Tunnel to Towers 5K Run/Walk & Climb Series was created to honor the heroic life and death of Stephen Siller, a New York City firefighter (FDNY) who lost his life on September 11, 2001 after strapping on his gear and running through the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel to the Twin Towers. We honor all of those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001 and support our first responders and military who make extraordinary sacrifices in the line of duty! For more information on the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, please visit t2t.org.

How much of the stadium do I have to climb?

You will be following the aisles through the stadium seating, starting in Section 1 and climbing up, down and around to the other side of the stadium at least 5 times (Approx. 2,200 ft of “track”). Click on the link below for an overview of the stadium. Volunteers will be guiding the Climbers.

Patriot Stadium Seating Chart

Participation Details

• Challenge by choice: No, this is a challenge by choice event and we are just glad you can join us.
• Bailout locations: There will be several opportunities to bail out at the top of each aisle. Water stations will be available and the start and end points each round, with concessions open in the middle.
• Medical assistance: There will be medics on the premises in the event of an emergency.
• Climb duration: This depends on how many steps you climb, and on your fitness level, speed and amount of time spent at rest areas. Some of our fastest climbers finish in about 45 minutes but please climb at your own pace.

Climb Regulations

• Timed climb: Yes, we will have a timing company on site this year to time our climbers.
• Rest stops: Yes, but please try to stop at the top of the aisles in the concourse where there is more room for other climbers to continue around you. Slower climbers should move to the right, allowing faster climbers to pass on the left.
• Unable to finish: No problem, this is a challenge by choice event. If you are in need of medical assistance, please ask a volunteer for help.
• No stairs required: Yes! Participants who do not wish to climb stairs are welcome to walk at one of the designated areas of the stadium as a way of participating as well. The concourse is wheelchair accessible as well.

Participant Information

• Gear for first responders: Yes, you may wear turnout gear. In fact, we encourage it!
• Phone policy: Yes!
• Packet pickup: Packet pick up will be available starting Thursday, July 30th - Friday, July 31st from 1:00 - 7:00 pm. Saturday (event day) pickup begins at 6:00 am until 7:45 AM.
• Arrival time: The event will begin at 8:00am with a ceremony, so we can beat the heat when the climb starts, immediately following the opening remarks.

Event Logistics

• Bringing bags: Yes, and subject to be checked. The Foundation is not responsible for any personal items/valuables.
• Electronics policy: Yes. Cameras and video are allowed. The Foundation is not responsible for any personal items/valuables.
• Friends and family: Yes, absolutely!
• Event T-shirt: Yes. All participants in the T2T Climb will receive an event T-shirt and finisher's medal who register in advance.

Funds and Fundraising

• Purpose of funds: The goal of this event is to raise money to honor first responders and military heroes. Proceeds will benefit the Foundation’s various programs including our Smart Home, Fallen First Responder, Gold Star Family, Veteran Homelessness programs.
• Tax-deductibility: No. The entry fee helps cover the cost of producing the T2T Tower Climb, and includes a participant t-shirt.
• Fundraising post-event: YES! The amount raised for incentive prizes will be determined at 6 weeks post event, but we encourage everyone to raise additional funds.