Tower One Barangaroo 2022
Tower One Stair Challenge Returns to Sydney with a Bang
On Sunday, August 28th, the highly anticipated Tower One Stair Challenge made its grand return to Sydney, marking a new chapter for stair climbing enthusiasts. Located in the heart of the CBD, Tower One Barangaroo provided a stunning waterfront backdrop for this thrilling event. After years of hosting the event at Sydney Tower, Barangaroo took the baton, attracting participants from across the country. With the promise of an exhilarating experience for both newcomers and seasoned climbers, the Tower One Stair Challenge did not disappoint.
A Thriving Community:
The response to the Tower One Stair Challenge was overwhelming, with participants traveling from interstate to be a part of this exciting event. Novice climbers were filled with anticipation, eager to enjoy their first stair climbing experience, while experienced climbers aimed to add another coveted medallion to their collection. The atmosphere was electric, with a strong sense of camaraderie among the participants on this beautiful day.
Supporting a Worthy Cause:
Giant Steps Sydney, a prominent charity organisation, partnered as the major beneficiary for the Tower One Stair Challenge. The initial fundraising goal of $100,000 was surpassed thanks to the incredible efforts of the participants. The success of this event not only showcased the determination and generosity of the climbers but also paved the way for future collaborations with Giant Steps.
Unforgettable Performances:
Between the waves of climbers conquering the stairs, several individuals stood out for their remarkable achievements. John Du Boulay, an endurance stairclimber, took on the stairs an astounding 12 times, showcasing his unparalleled dedication. SCA member Cody Pratt, aiming for victory, delivered an outstanding performance, clinching first place in the men's division with a time of 5:47. In the women's division, SCA member Mikaela Bentley, secured the top spot with a remarkable time of 6:45. These exceptional athletes left a lasting impression on everyone present.
SCA's Strong Presence:
The Stair Climbing Association (SCA) showed up in force at Tower One, with numerous members competing in the challenge. Among them was Josh Freer, a first-time stairclimber and the son of world champion Suzy Walsham. Josh impressed everyone with his remarkable climb, completing the stairs in an impressive time of 7 minutes and 51 seconds. His debut performance promises an exciting future for this rising star within the stair climbing community.
Team Efforts:
SCA fielded two teams for the event, each member taking on four individual climbs and one team climb. Team 1 secured an impressive fifth-place finish with a combined time of 35:01, showcasing the remarkable skills of Arty, Jono, Lyndell, and Amber. Team 2, comprising Kevin, Allison, Marina, and Maria, put forth a valiant effort and secured 12th place with a combined time of 53:07. The teamwork and determination displayed by both teams were truly inspiring.
The Perfect Setting:
The Tower One stairwell provided a refreshing change for climbers, featuring handrails on both sides, a less steep incline, and excellent ventilation. These factors made the ascent of 1000 stairs less physically taxing than other stair climbs. With its user-friendly design and airy atmosphere, Tower One proved to be an ideal venue for both newcomers and experienced climbers alike.
A Heartfelt Thanks:
The success of the Tower One Stair Challenge would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of several individuals. Steve Corrie, the driving force behind the event, along with Giant Steps and the incredible volunteers, deserve special recognition for their unwavering commitment. Their collective efforts ensured that the day was a resounding success
