Stair-Climbing to Save Lives: Iconic Fight For Air Climb Returns to loanDepot park on March 9

To fund lifesaving research, prevent lung disease and save lives, the American Lung Association in Florida is hosting the Fight For Air Climb Miami at loanDepot park on Sunday, March 9, 2025. Metro-Dade Firefighters IAFF Local 1403 is returning as Presenting Sponsor and has been a long-standing partner since the Miami Climb’s inception 21 years ago.

“For more than twenty years, the South Florida community has stepped up to help raise awareness and critical funding to support the 3.2 million Floridians—family, friends and neighbors—who live with lung disease,” said Peter Berger, chair of the Fight For Air Climb Miami and fire inspector for Broward Sheriff’s Office Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services. “We invite everyone to join us on the stairs. Together, we can achieve a future free of lung disease and lung cancer.”

The climb is designed for every type of participant, from beginners to competitive climbers to first responders in gear. Participants determine their pace as they climb 1,700 stairs up and down loanDepot park—Home of the Miami Marlins. The ballpark, which will host the event for the 4th consecutive year, is the perfect setting for a day of fun, challenge and camaraderie.

A unique highlight of the Fight For Air Climb Miami is the massive firefighter and first responder presence. Last year, more than 300 first responders from across South Florida participated, most in turnout gear.

"As firefighters, we are committed to protecting our community in every way possible, and that includes the fight against lung disease,” said William McAllister IV, Local 1403 union president. “The Fight For Air Climb is an event we hold close to our hearts because it allows us to honor those we've lost, support those still battling and raise awareness for a healthier future. We are proud to stand alongside the American Lung Association for the 21st year, and we encourage everyone to join us in making a difference—one stair at a time."

Berger, a firefighter/paramedic who also serves on the Lung Association’s South Florida Board, added: “The Miami Climb wouldn’t be possible without the continued support and partnership of Metro-Dade Firefighters IAFF Local 1403, as well as Miami-Dade Fire Rescue and Fire Chief Raied ‘Ray’ Jadallah. We are incredibly grateful for their leadership.”

Firefighters, junior cadets and explorers can compete in the Third Annual Firefighter Challenge, a four-obstacle endurance course to test skill and fitness, with prizes awarded to the top three male and female winners. The Firefighter Challenge, which includes bicycle, Keiser sled, hose drag and civilian rescue, is run by Metro Dade Firefighters IAFF Local 1403. The untimed version of the Firefighter Challenge is open to all Fight For Air Climb participants, including civilians, who wish to test their strength and agility.

Joining the Fight For Air Climb Miami supports the work of the Lung Association to end lung cancer, improve the air we breathe, reduce the burden of lung disease on individuals and their families and create a tobacco-free future. In addition to supporting lung health, stair climbing has significant health benefits. It improves balance and coordination and strengthens major muscles. Daily stair-climbing may help lower mortality risk.

Registration for the Fight For Air Climb Miami is now open, with $15 early bird registration until November 17. There is a $100 fundraising minimum. For more information, visit ClimbMiami.org.