88 Fit Fire Fighters Take On 10,000 Steps

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
27 May 2005

EIGHTY-EIGHT FIT fire fighters take ON 10,000 step
SKY TOWER challenge tomorrow (Sat 28th)

Eighty-eight fit fire fighters in full fire-fighting regalia will tomorrow (Saturday 28 May 2005) take on a gruelling, never before attempted, 10,000-step challenge up Sky Tower's internal stairwell in a private event to raise money for the Leukaemia and Blood Foundation.

Event organiser Tony Scott, Senior Fire Fighter from the Auckland Airport Rescue Fire Service, says that this inaugural test of stamina and endurance will push the fire fighters to the limit.

"From entry level, there are 1,029 steps to level 51 - the main observation deck of Sky Tower. But that's not the end of it - entrants will need to go up and down three and half times to complete the 10,000 step challenge," says Mr Scott.

"The fitness required to climb up 51 levels inside Sky Tower's stairwell in full fire fighting gear is immense. The kit alone weighs eight kilos and the breathing apparatus or air cylinder weighs another 14 kilos - so there is around 22 kilos over and above your normal weight to carry."

"Add to that the fact it gets extremely hot in fire fighting gear which builds up and drains energy the higher up you go," he says.

"There is a high level of competitiveness in the fire service and this event is actually very job related. It's going to be a battle of the fittest to see who can complete the 10,000 steps in the fastest time."

SKYCITY Attractions Manager Allison Lawton said there were easier ways to enjoy Sky Tower's panoramic views of Auckland, "but we really admire the fire fighters' determination and fitness - and we urge everyone to support this great cause."

Two or three fire trucks will be parked around the plaza during the event.

The action begins at 9:30 am from the base of Sky Tower.

Sky Tower will continue to operate as normal.

ENDS

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