Have a question about the Big Climb for Leukemia? Check this page first. Your answer may be right here.  If it is not, contact Wilma Comenat, Senior Campaign Manager at wilma.comenat@lls.org or (206) 628-0777 ext. 104.

   
Q: How many stairs are there?
A: 1,311 steps

Q: How many flights is the Big Climb?
A: 69 flights

Q: How long does the Big Climb take?
A: This depends on each participant's fitness level, speed and the amount of time spent at rest areas. Top racers finish in as little as eight minutes, while the average participant takes from 20 to 30 minutes to finish. 

Q: When will I receive my start time?
A: Start times will be emailed (if email was provided) or mailed starting late February. You can also check online here.

Q: How are start times assigned?
A: Start times are assigned in the order that entry forms are received. Approximately 70 participants will be assigned per start time and per stairwell starting at 8:30 a.m. Start times are spaced fifteen minutes apart (8:30 a.m., 8:45 a.m., 9 a.m., etc).

Q: Can I change my start time?
A: Times are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Please email wilma.comenat@lls.org  if you have any questions.

Q: Will I receive an event T-shirt?
A: Yes. All participants receive an event T-shirt at check-in. You can also earn additional prizes by collecting pledges. 

Q: What is the pledge collection deadline?
A: April 4, 2008

Q: Is there a fundraising minimum?
A: No, but we encourage all participants to raise funds to fight blood cancers. We challenge each participant to beat the 2007 fundraising average of $150. You can earn exciting incentive prizes based on the amount you raise.

Q: What time should I arrive?
A: 20-30 minutes prior to your assigned start time.  Please take in to consideration the time it will take you to find parking.

Q: My friend is being timed, but I want to walk without being timed. Can we still have the same start time?
A: Yes, you can. Please note you will have the same start time but you will be in two different stairwells. You will both end up at the top and may continue to the rehab floor together.

Q: Can we practice at the building before the event?
A: No. Due to safety, security and liability reasons, we cannot allow anyone in the building before the event begins.

Q: Can I take a camera or video recorder up the stairs with me?
A: No. The Columbia Center security policy prohibits cameras and video recorders in the stairwells. 

Q: Can my friends and family wait for me at the finish line?
A: No. Due to space limitations, no spectators are allowed at the finish line. Friends and family are welcome to wait at the Atrium level.

Q: How do I receive my 25% discount at McCormick's?
A: Just show your event shirt and get 25% off your food bill (not including drinks).

Q: When will they show the video of participants finishing at McCormick's?
A: Starting at 9:30am, the first video will show participants who started at 8:30am. The videos will not repeat so please get there early if you want to see your finish line video and those of your teammates.

Q: Can I wear a baby backpack?
A: No backpacks of any sort are allowed, and children under 8 years of age may not participate in the event.

Q: Is there a bag check area provided?
A: There will be a free bag check area for personal items on the atrium level.

Q:  Where is the event held?
A:  The Big Climb is held at the Columbia Center in downtown Seattle.  The address is 701 5th Ave., Seattle, WA 98104. Get directions, a detailed map and driving instructions

Q:  Is parking available?
A:  Free parking is available for all event participants and volunteers.  The entrance to the parking lot is located on Columbia Street, between 4th and 5th avenues.

Contact

• For online fundraising questions, contact Nathan Eddings at nathan.eddings@lls.org.
     
• For event questions contact Wilma Comenat, Senior Campaign Manager, at wilma.comenat@lls.org. 
   
• Both Nathan and Wilma can be reached at 206.628.0777.