Firefighter Sky Tower Stair Challenge this Saturday (May 23)

Firefighter Sky Tower Stair Challenge this Saturday (May 23)

21 May 2015, 12:57PM
Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand

Firefighters across the country are busy getting ready to climb Auckland’s iconic Sky Tower this Saturday (May 23) for the annual Firefighter Sky Tower Stair Challenge.

The event will commence with a Maori Haka at the base of the Sky Tower before the challenge officially kicks off at 8am until the last competitor reaches the top at 2pm.

With just four days to go until the big day, close to $690,000 has already been raised for Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand (LBC) by 750 firefighters from across the country as well as 23 overseas participants from the U.S, Germany, Chile and Australia.

Firefighters have held a range of innovative fundraising initiatives over the last six months including hay bailing, bake sales, bucket shaking, boar hunts and entering local beauty pageants. The money raised from these events goes towards supporting patients and families living with blood cancers in their communities.

There is also a special squad of non-firefighters competing in the event comprising well-known New Zealand celebrities, media personalities and LBC corporate supporters. CEO of SKYCITY Nigel Morrison, Seven Sharp presenter Nadine Chalmers-Ross and Sky Sports Commentator and former New Zealand Netballer Adine Wilson all join the team having spent the past few months furiously fundraising and training for the event.

The funds raised from event go back into the community by helping LBC continue to run their vital service supporting the six Kiwis diagnosed with a blood cancer or related condition every day. LBC receives no Government funding.

Pru Etcheverry, CEO of Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand says the firefighters are incredibly competitive on the climb but also on the money they raise to support blood cancer patients.

“We are super excited at how much the firefighters have already raised and we love hearing about the unique ideas and events they come up with to do so. We love their enthusiasm and are deeply appreciative of their dedication and support,” says Ms Etcheverry.

The event is sponsored by SKYCITY, Auckland Airport and Tait Communications.

SKYCITY Chief Executive Nigel Morrison says SKYCITY is proud to be working with Leukaemia & Blood Cancer NZ on this creative and exciting event.

“Not only has this event become the pinnacle fundraising challenge for the firefighting community around New Zealand, we deliver incredible results for LBC helping them support Kiwi families in need,” says Mr Morrison, who will be competing in the challenge for the first time this year.

“The Sky Tower is an incredible structure and to see it used in this way is so inspiring. Every year we are astounded but the commitment of the firefighters and their communities to help raise money for LBC and I have no doubt that this year will be bigger and better.”

Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand (LBC) is the national charity dedicated to supporting patients and their families living with blood cancers and related blood conditions. www.leukaemia.org.nz

To find out how to support your local brigade visit www.firefightersclimb.org.nz

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