Local Firefighters to Climb 800 Stairs at Wantland Stadium

Corporal Zach Rowell, of the Oklahoma City Fire Department, lost a fellow firefighter to lung cancer. Rowell’s father is lung cancer survivor. That’s why in memory of his friend and in honor of his father, he will join his team of firefighters for the fourth consecutive year to participate in the American Lung Association’s outdoor Fight For Air Climb in Oklahoma to raise money for research. 

“Looking at the stats of cancer and lung disease, firefighters are at a very high risk and are susceptible to it,” he said. “We know it’s an issue and a risk so we’re going to fight for progress.”

Oklahoma City Fire-Rescue’s team of climbers consists of 20-25 firefighters and have raised more than $2,400.

“The Lung Association is the industry leader in research,” Rowell said. “Losing my friend to lung cancer, I want to support the funding of research and programs.”

Registration is now open or the event, which includes tackling nearly 800 stairs at Wantland Stadium. Unlike year’s past, the event on May 1 will be outdoors.

“I’m an outdoor person, I love the sunshine and the fresh air,” Rowell said. “Outdoors we’ll be able to see other people and where they are so it might make the friendly competition a little more intense.”

The American Lung Association invites individuals, families, groups of friends, corporate teams and first responders to the 2021 Fight For Air Climb at Wantland Stadium. The organization is also offering a “Climb Your Way” option for those who can’t make it to the physical event.

Masks will be required at the event and social distancing will be practiced. The safety of participants, staff and volunteers is always our number one priority, so we are continually monitoring local conditions that might affect the Climb. Everyone is encouraged to check our Climb website for the most up-to-date information leading up to the event.

Money raised at the Fight For Air Climb will fund the Lung Association’s efforts to end lung cancer and lung disease, as well as support the Lung Association’s COVID-19 Action Initiative, a $25 million investment to address COVID-19 and protect against future respiratory virus pandemics. 

Registration for the Fight For Air Climb is $35 and includes a $100 fundraising minimum. For more information, and to register, visit FightForAirClimb.org/OklahomaCity.