What is the San Antonio 110 - 9/11 Memorial Climb
All across the country departments and cities are finding new ways to show that they Will Never Forget. One of these ways is with what is called a 110 climb done by firefighters for their 343 fallen FDNY brothers. We have created one of our own in our fine city of San Antonio in what we call the San Antonio 110. On September 11th 2001 firefighters entered into the 110 story structures of the World Trade Center Twin Towers and climbed. They did so, courageously, to save as many victims of the 9/11 attacks as possible. And along the way these brave heroes lost their lives.
Every year on September 11th we hold the San Antonio 110 9/11 Memorial Climb to honor the 343 firefighters lost that day. We climb, and actually exceed, the 110 floors of The Towers Of The Americas to pay tribute to these brave and finest of FDNY. Additional tributes are also made to our LEO and EMS fallen brethren.
EVENT INFORMATION: Please click on the links below to read each
Event Schedule
Event Rules
Registration Rules
Liability Waiver
The Event
(All participants, including first responders must be registered and checked in at designated times. Participants must do so and be present for the opening ceremony to take part in the climb event.)
A solemn opening memorial ceremony will start the event beginning at approximately 745/800am. It will include a At 846am bells will toll and a moment of silence will be held in remembrance of the first tower being struck. Firefighters, followed by other first responders and then the public, will then ascend the stairs of the Tower of The Americas.
Participants, in order of precedence (please see additional information on the Precedence List), will carry with them the picture, name, and accountability tag of a fallen firefighter of 9/11 to climb in that hero's honor. Upon completing their climb the participant will ring a bell and the accountability tag for the fallen firefighter will be placed among the others on an accountability board symbolizing that fallen firefighters completed climb to the top. Once finished participants will sign the name of the firefighter they honored on the Remembrance Flag.
To honor the fallen Law Enforcement Officers of 9/11 there will also be a special tribute. We will have available 70 memorabilia tags which will be carried for the Law Enforcement officers of Port Authority, NYPD, and other agencies that passed away on 9/11 in the World Trade Center as well as for the 9 EMS personnel.
To complete the 110 floors of the World Trade Center Twin Towers the Tower Of The Americas stairs must be climbed TWICE. This is highly encouraged, along with any firefighter or Police gear you may want to wear, although it is NOT necessary. We welcome all to come out and pay tribute in whatever attire is best suited for their capabilities and to do as much as able. Please be aware though that you will need to be prepared climb the tower staircase at least once. Once ascending the tower stairs there is no exit other than at the top. Please be sure to be physically capable for this event and well hydrated.
There is much symbolism that will occur throughout the event to help pay tribute to the events of 9/11/01. The Bells will toll at marked times for the strike of each tower and the pentagon, the crash of flight 93, and collapse of both towers as time permits. At each of these times climbers will momentarily pause in their climb and hold silence as firefighters activate their distress alarms (PASS devices).
This is NOT a race and racing will not be allowed. This is a memorable tribute to the brave firefighters who sacrificed their lives on 9/11.
The event will end with The Tolling Of The Bells at our closing ceremony, a time honored tradition in the fire service indicating the End Of Watch for our fallen.
Proceeds from donations benefit this year's chosen beneficiary (changes annually).
Every year on September 11th we hold the San Antonio 110 9/11 Memorial Climb to honor the 343 firefighters lost that day. We climb, and actually exceed, the 110 floors of The Towers Of The Americas to pay tribute to these brave and finest of FDNY. Additional tributes are also made to our LEO and EMS fallen brethren.
EVENT INFORMATION: Please click on the links below to read each
Event Schedule
Event Rules
Registration Rules
Liability Waiver
The Event
(All participants, including first responders must be registered and checked in at designated times. Participants must do so and be present for the opening ceremony to take part in the climb event.)
A solemn opening memorial ceremony will start the event beginning at approximately 745/800am. It will include a At 846am bells will toll and a moment of silence will be held in remembrance of the first tower being struck. Firefighters, followed by other first responders and then the public, will then ascend the stairs of the Tower of The Americas.
Participants, in order of precedence (please see additional information on the Precedence List), will carry with them the picture, name, and accountability tag of a fallen firefighter of 9/11 to climb in that hero's honor. Upon completing their climb the participant will ring a bell and the accountability tag for the fallen firefighter will be placed among the others on an accountability board symbolizing that fallen firefighters completed climb to the top. Once finished participants will sign the name of the firefighter they honored on the Remembrance Flag.
To honor the fallen Law Enforcement Officers of 9/11 there will also be a special tribute. We will have available 70 memorabilia tags which will be carried for the Law Enforcement officers of Port Authority, NYPD, and other agencies that passed away on 9/11 in the World Trade Center as well as for the 9 EMS personnel.
To complete the 110 floors of the World Trade Center Twin Towers the Tower Of The Americas stairs must be climbed TWICE. This is highly encouraged, along with any firefighter or Police gear you may want to wear, although it is NOT necessary. We welcome all to come out and pay tribute in whatever attire is best suited for their capabilities and to do as much as able. Please be aware though that you will need to be prepared climb the tower staircase at least once. Once ascending the tower stairs there is no exit other than at the top. Please be sure to be physically capable for this event and well hydrated.
There is much symbolism that will occur throughout the event to help pay tribute to the events of 9/11/01. The Bells will toll at marked times for the strike of each tower and the pentagon, the crash of flight 93, and collapse of both towers as time permits. At each of these times climbers will momentarily pause in their climb and hold silence as firefighters activate their distress alarms (PASS devices).
This is NOT a race and racing will not be allowed. This is a memorable tribute to the brave firefighters who sacrificed their lives on 9/11.
The event will end with The Tolling Of The Bells at our closing ceremony, a time honored tradition in the fire service indicating the End Of Watch for our fallen.
Proceeds from donations benefit this year's chosen beneficiary (changes annually).
FAQs
(for full information please review the web site and the information documents at bottom of this page or on the registration page.)
Do I need to register if I am only attending the event and not participating in the climb?
No. Registration is for those who will be participating in the 110+ floor climb in honor of the fallen heroes of 9/11. By registering you are signing up to be a participant in the climb and agreeing to possibly carry a tag of a fallen hero to the top.
*All participants planning to climb must register online to be placed on the list for a tag and check-in on time on event day during check in times to receive a check-in bracelet to be able to climb.
What time do I need to arrive on event day?
Check-in begins at, or just before, 0600 and will close promptly at 0720 no matter the people still in line. ALL participants for the climb MUST be checked in during those designated times to participate in the event. Please be prepared and allot enough time for parking and getting to the event. Once the main parking lot fills everyone will be directed to additional parking if available which also may be pay parking in lots nearby. We have very limited parking due to construction in the area. Anticipate a possible "trek" to the grounds. You may need to find your own parking. Plan to arrive early to park and make it to the tower grounds. Carpooling is highly encouraged due to the limited parking. It is highly recommended that you prepare to be ready to check in at 6am-630am. Once check-in is closed it will not be reopened as we do not want to disturb the opening memorial ceremony which will begin at approximately 0745. All participants will be required to show proof of check-in (bracelet) to enter the stairwell to climb. Arrive early and immediately check in as soon as possible.
Are there ID requirements or an age limit to participate in the climb event?
Yes. You must be at least 15 years of age on event day to participate. If under the age of 18 a legal guardian must be present to sign check-in for the participant and sign waivers. Valid ID MUST be shown at check-in. First Responders may be asked for proof of profession. Participants must be at least 18 years of age to carry a tag as a First Responder.
Do I HAVE to agree to climb the tower twice to be a participant?
We highly encourage that all participants TRY to complete the entire climb. The point of 110 floor climbs across the country is to honor the fallen heroes of 9/11 and complete the climb they so courageously began. The World Trade Center Twin Towers are 110 floor structures. We do this to pay tribute to their sacrifice. To reach 110 floors the Tower Of The Americas must be climbed twice as it is only 65 floors to to observation deck. Prepare and attire yourself appropriately to complete this goal. However, if any participant is unable to climb the second turn that is okay. Whether you climb once or climb twice what is important is that each participant is holding tribute to our fallen heroes of 9/11. We encourage all to come out and participate and just do the best they can and are able to. You must however be prepared to climb the Tower Of The Americas at least once.
Please note: Civilians may not have enough time to complete the climb twice. Once doors to the stairwell close they will not be reopened for climbs.
Is my registration transferable or able to be changed?
No. Transferring registrations is not allowed nor fair to our attendees who signed up to get on the precedence list. If you need to cancel your registration PLEASE contact registration@sanantonio110.com so that if you were assigned a tag it can be assigned to someone else. This is important to ensure our fallen are all paid tribute to.
The name on the registration doesn't match the attendee. Is that okay?
No. Registration must be filled out for each individual participant by the attending participant.
Why do I need to Pre-register online and not on event day?
We sell out all available spots online and no longer allow walk-in registrations. You must register online. By registering online you will be placed on the Precedence List to carry the photo and tag for one of the 343 fallen firefighters, 70 LEO, or 9 EMS of 9/11. We do anticipate to "sell out" of spots this year and do have limited participation available due to occupancy requirements. All participants in the climb event must check in on time to be allowed to climb. This rule applies to First Responders as well.
What is the "precedence list"?
There are 343 fallen firefighter tags and firefighter accountability tags, 70 fallen law enforcement tags, and 9 EMS tags available to be carried. The firefighter accountability tags will be placed on an accountability board for the 343 when the participants climb is completed symbolizing that fallen hero's completed climb to the top. When you register online you will be placed on a Precedence list (aka: Priority List) to receive one of these tags. The Precedence list places participants by the following priority for receiving one of the fallen first responder tags: Firefighters, Law Enforcement Officers, EMS, Military, and then general civilian public (You must be at least 18 years of age to be placed on the Precedence List as a First Responder). The only way to be assigned to this list, and therefore possibly receive an accountability tag for a fallen firefighter, LEO, or EMS, is to register online. Upon check-in at event participants will be given their tags depending how they fall on this list. (Please have proof of profession available as it may be asked for. Please note that falsely claiming any of these professions is also illegal. Please respect what we are doing and the open invitation that has been extended.) On event day if there are tags remaining unclaimed at end of check-in the remaining tags will be handed out accordingly.
I am a firefighter/law enforcement officer/military/first responder. Do I need to register online and check-in as well?
ALL participants must register online. As well, Check-in rules apply to all participants, first responders included. (aka: "Don't be that guy") Please see the question above: "What time do I need to arrive on event day?"
I am a firefighter/law enforcement officer/military/first responder. Can I wear my gear during the climb?
Yes! Many of our first responders will be in gear during the climb. SCBA's are also allowed and encouraged if able as some will be momentarily setting off the distress (PASS) devices during specific times representing events of 9/11. Gear although is NOT required! We encourage any and all first responders to participate in whatever attire they are comfortable to do so in to complete the the Two Tower climb. What is most important is that we are THERE representing our brotherhood and paying tribute to our fallen. That's why first responders also receive top priority on the precedence list, no matter the attire.
Other tools and equipment will not be allowed in the stairwells though without approval from the planning committee. (no tools, flag poles, etc that are handheld are allowed due to risk.) Please see Event Rules for details as well.
Do I need to train for this event?
It is highly encouraged that you come prepared. Both mentally and physically capable and well hydrated. Stairclimbing is a lot tougher than most people anticipate. One tower climb is 65 floors. Climbing twice will be 130 floors. That's 1820 stairs! Training for this event as much as possible is recommended as well as seeking a physicians advice regarding any health concerns.
Train. Hydrate. And know your limits. The Tower is no joke!
Is this event a competitive race? Will we be timed?
No. This event will not be timed. This event is NOT a race but rather a solemn memorial and tribute to our fallen. "Racing to the top" is prohibited and will not be allowed. Climbers will also pause in their climb for specific designated moments of silence to reflect on important landmarks that occurred on 9/11.
I am also a sponsor or would like to promote my business or affiliation at this event. How can I do this?
Information to sponsor this event is available by going to the Sponsor/Thanks page of this website. Our primary goal of this event is to hold a memorial for our fallen brothers of 9/11. Because of this, out of respect for our fallen and as this is a memorial event, it is very important to our committee that the event not be overly "commercialized" and no advertising is allowed on event grounds other than in the ways described in the Sponsorship Prospectus. Any other advertising on event grounds is prohibited. This is an event for our fallen. This is an event for our first responders to pay tribute to their brothers. This is an event for the public to participate in such a memorial and support their local heroes and for both individuals and local companies to join in and support this great cause. We are very appreciative of our donors and sponsors as this event is 100% funded by such. We do now include opportunity for our sponsors (only) to set up and advertise at our Afterparty though! Visit our Sponsors page for more info!
May I bring a table, tent, banner/sign, or promotional material to the event?
SA110 holds a strict "No Advertising" policy for the event. To ensure there are no other agendas monopolizing upon our solemn tribute to our fallen this policy can hold no grey area. Therefore no tents, tables, banners, signs, or promotional materials are permitted on the grounds. Only sponsors which help contribute towards our mission are allowed the small amount of promotion organized by our event. If you are interested in promoting your related cause or organization please contact support@sanantonio110.com for information on doing so at our afterparty, the SA911 Brotherhood Brew Bash, held immediately following the event at Alamo Beer Co. Another option is showing your support by volunteering or participating and wearing your organization's shirts while doing so. If you would like to volunteer as a group please contact volunteer@sanantonio110.com. Thank you for understanding and helping to protect the honor and respect our fallen deserve!
What is allowed or prohibited at the event? (additional info, reminders)
See above regarding promotional materials and tents, tables, etc. Firearms are NOT allowed at event unless in full uniform as a law enforcement officer and kept in duty holster at all times. We understand that firefighters have gear bags. However please understand that bags will need to be checked before entry. To assist in quick entry to the grounds, please try to follow a "Clear bag policy". Please expect to be searched. As well as random body checks (pat downs). Please limit items and bags inside the event grounds, to make it easier on us all! Collapsible material travel chairs are allowed. However, again, we appreciate limiting items on the grounds for security purposes. Valid ID absolutely MUST be provided and available at any time by all. Coolers are NOT allowed. Refreshments and food are provided and available to all inside event grounds. Guests are NOT allowed inside the Tower Of Americas building. So please don't tell your family they can meet you at the top. ONLY those with Participant wristbands will be allowed inside the tower stairwell or building. Please note: due to prior issues, anyone attempting to climb fraudulently (not registered, sneaking in) will not only be removed but also banned from the Tower of the Americas and all future events.
Do I rock?
Yes. Yes you do.
Thank you and I hope this helps answer any questions. If you should have any others please go to the Contact Us tab for further direction. Participation an Registration questions you may contact register@sanantonio110.com
The Event Schedule, Event Rules, Registration Rules, Liability Waivers and SA110 Ethics/Values we follow are all available on the Statements/Docs page. Sponsorship information is available on the Sponsors page. Please be sure to thoroughly read pertinent documents. By registering online all participants are agreeing to the terms within them and their acknowledgment of them.
San Antonio 110 committee may close registration early or extend if deemed necessary for benefit of the event.
Thank you all and we look forward to seeing you at this year's San Antonio 110 9/11 Memorial Climb!
(for full information please review the web site and the information documents at bottom of this page or on the registration page.)
Do I need to register if I am only attending the event and not participating in the climb?
No. Registration is for those who will be participating in the 110+ floor climb in honor of the fallen heroes of 9/11. By registering you are signing up to be a participant in the climb and agreeing to possibly carry a tag of a fallen hero to the top.
*All participants planning to climb must register online to be placed on the list for a tag and check-in on time on event day during check in times to receive a check-in bracelet to be able to climb.
What time do I need to arrive on event day?
Check-in begins at, or just before, 0600 and will close promptly at 0720 no matter the people still in line. ALL participants for the climb MUST be checked in during those designated times to participate in the event. Please be prepared and allot enough time for parking and getting to the event. Once the main parking lot fills everyone will be directed to additional parking if available which also may be pay parking in lots nearby. We have very limited parking due to construction in the area. Anticipate a possible "trek" to the grounds. You may need to find your own parking. Plan to arrive early to park and make it to the tower grounds. Carpooling is highly encouraged due to the limited parking. It is highly recommended that you prepare to be ready to check in at 6am-630am. Once check-in is closed it will not be reopened as we do not want to disturb the opening memorial ceremony which will begin at approximately 0745. All participants will be required to show proof of check-in (bracelet) to enter the stairwell to climb. Arrive early and immediately check in as soon as possible.
Are there ID requirements or an age limit to participate in the climb event?
Yes. You must be at least 15 years of age on event day to participate. If under the age of 18 a legal guardian must be present to sign check-in for the participant and sign waivers. Valid ID MUST be shown at check-in. First Responders may be asked for proof of profession. Participants must be at least 18 years of age to carry a tag as a First Responder.
Do I HAVE to agree to climb the tower twice to be a participant?
We highly encourage that all participants TRY to complete the entire climb. The point of 110 floor climbs across the country is to honor the fallen heroes of 9/11 and complete the climb they so courageously began. The World Trade Center Twin Towers are 110 floor structures. We do this to pay tribute to their sacrifice. To reach 110 floors the Tower Of The Americas must be climbed twice as it is only 65 floors to to observation deck. Prepare and attire yourself appropriately to complete this goal. However, if any participant is unable to climb the second turn that is okay. Whether you climb once or climb twice what is important is that each participant is holding tribute to our fallen heroes of 9/11. We encourage all to come out and participate and just do the best they can and are able to. You must however be prepared to climb the Tower Of The Americas at least once.
Please note: Civilians may not have enough time to complete the climb twice. Once doors to the stairwell close they will not be reopened for climbs.
Is my registration transferable or able to be changed?
No. Transferring registrations is not allowed nor fair to our attendees who signed up to get on the precedence list. If you need to cancel your registration PLEASE contact registration@sanantonio110.com so that if you were assigned a tag it can be assigned to someone else. This is important to ensure our fallen are all paid tribute to.
The name on the registration doesn't match the attendee. Is that okay?
No. Registration must be filled out for each individual participant by the attending participant.
Why do I need to Pre-register online and not on event day?
We sell out all available spots online and no longer allow walk-in registrations. You must register online. By registering online you will be placed on the Precedence List to carry the photo and tag for one of the 343 fallen firefighters, 70 LEO, or 9 EMS of 9/11. We do anticipate to "sell out" of spots this year and do have limited participation available due to occupancy requirements. All participants in the climb event must check in on time to be allowed to climb. This rule applies to First Responders as well.
What is the "precedence list"?
There are 343 fallen firefighter tags and firefighter accountability tags, 70 fallen law enforcement tags, and 9 EMS tags available to be carried. The firefighter accountability tags will be placed on an accountability board for the 343 when the participants climb is completed symbolizing that fallen hero's completed climb to the top. When you register online you will be placed on a Precedence list (aka: Priority List) to receive one of these tags. The Precedence list places participants by the following priority for receiving one of the fallen first responder tags: Firefighters, Law Enforcement Officers, EMS, Military, and then general civilian public (You must be at least 18 years of age to be placed on the Precedence List as a First Responder). The only way to be assigned to this list, and therefore possibly receive an accountability tag for a fallen firefighter, LEO, or EMS, is to register online. Upon check-in at event participants will be given their tags depending how they fall on this list. (Please have proof of profession available as it may be asked for. Please note that falsely claiming any of these professions is also illegal. Please respect what we are doing and the open invitation that has been extended.) On event day if there are tags remaining unclaimed at end of check-in the remaining tags will be handed out accordingly.
I am a firefighter/law enforcement officer/military/first responder. Do I need to register online and check-in as well?
ALL participants must register online. As well, Check-in rules apply to all participants, first responders included. (aka: "Don't be that guy") Please see the question above: "What time do I need to arrive on event day?"
I am a firefighter/law enforcement officer/military/first responder. Can I wear my gear during the climb?
Yes! Many of our first responders will be in gear during the climb. SCBA's are also allowed and encouraged if able as some will be momentarily setting off the distress (PASS) devices during specific times representing events of 9/11. Gear although is NOT required! We encourage any and all first responders to participate in whatever attire they are comfortable to do so in to complete the the Two Tower climb. What is most important is that we are THERE representing our brotherhood and paying tribute to our fallen. That's why first responders also receive top priority on the precedence list, no matter the attire.
Other tools and equipment will not be allowed in the stairwells though without approval from the planning committee. (no tools, flag poles, etc that are handheld are allowed due to risk.) Please see Event Rules for details as well.
Do I need to train for this event?
It is highly encouraged that you come prepared. Both mentally and physically capable and well hydrated. Stairclimbing is a lot tougher than most people anticipate. One tower climb is 65 floors. Climbing twice will be 130 floors. That's 1820 stairs! Training for this event as much as possible is recommended as well as seeking a physicians advice regarding any health concerns.
Train. Hydrate. And know your limits. The Tower is no joke!
Is this event a competitive race? Will we be timed?
No. This event will not be timed. This event is NOT a race but rather a solemn memorial and tribute to our fallen. "Racing to the top" is prohibited and will not be allowed. Climbers will also pause in their climb for specific designated moments of silence to reflect on important landmarks that occurred on 9/11.
I am also a sponsor or would like to promote my business or affiliation at this event. How can I do this?
Information to sponsor this event is available by going to the Sponsor/Thanks page of this website. Our primary goal of this event is to hold a memorial for our fallen brothers of 9/11. Because of this, out of respect for our fallen and as this is a memorial event, it is very important to our committee that the event not be overly "commercialized" and no advertising is allowed on event grounds other than in the ways described in the Sponsorship Prospectus. Any other advertising on event grounds is prohibited. This is an event for our fallen. This is an event for our first responders to pay tribute to their brothers. This is an event for the public to participate in such a memorial and support their local heroes and for both individuals and local companies to join in and support this great cause. We are very appreciative of our donors and sponsors as this event is 100% funded by such. We do now include opportunity for our sponsors (only) to set up and advertise at our Afterparty though! Visit our Sponsors page for more info!
May I bring a table, tent, banner/sign, or promotional material to the event?
SA110 holds a strict "No Advertising" policy for the event. To ensure there are no other agendas monopolizing upon our solemn tribute to our fallen this policy can hold no grey area. Therefore no tents, tables, banners, signs, or promotional materials are permitted on the grounds. Only sponsors which help contribute towards our mission are allowed the small amount of promotion organized by our event. If you are interested in promoting your related cause or organization please contact support@sanantonio110.com for information on doing so at our afterparty, the SA911 Brotherhood Brew Bash, held immediately following the event at Alamo Beer Co. Another option is showing your support by volunteering or participating and wearing your organization's shirts while doing so. If you would like to volunteer as a group please contact volunteer@sanantonio110.com. Thank you for understanding and helping to protect the honor and respect our fallen deserve!
What is allowed or prohibited at the event? (additional info, reminders)
See above regarding promotional materials and tents, tables, etc. Firearms are NOT allowed at event unless in full uniform as a law enforcement officer and kept in duty holster at all times. We understand that firefighters have gear bags. However please understand that bags will need to be checked before entry. To assist in quick entry to the grounds, please try to follow a "Clear bag policy". Please expect to be searched. As well as random body checks (pat downs). Please limit items and bags inside the event grounds, to make it easier on us all! Collapsible material travel chairs are allowed. However, again, we appreciate limiting items on the grounds for security purposes. Valid ID absolutely MUST be provided and available at any time by all. Coolers are NOT allowed. Refreshments and food are provided and available to all inside event grounds. Guests are NOT allowed inside the Tower Of Americas building. So please don't tell your family they can meet you at the top. ONLY those with Participant wristbands will be allowed inside the tower stairwell or building. Please note: due to prior issues, anyone attempting to climb fraudulently (not registered, sneaking in) will not only be removed but also banned from the Tower of the Americas and all future events.
Do I rock?
Yes. Yes you do.
Thank you and I hope this helps answer any questions. If you should have any others please go to the Contact Us tab for further direction. Participation an Registration questions you may contact register@sanantonio110.com
The Event Schedule, Event Rules, Registration Rules, Liability Waivers and SA110 Ethics/Values we follow are all available on the Statements/Docs page. Sponsorship information is available on the Sponsors page. Please be sure to thoroughly read pertinent documents. By registering online all participants are agreeing to the terms within them and their acknowledgment of them.
San Antonio 110 committee may close registration early or extend if deemed necessary for benefit of the event.
Thank you all and we look forward to seeing you at this year's San Antonio 110 9/11 Memorial Climb!
*Any and all Rules and Waivers May be changed by San Antonio 110 as necessary
San Antonio 110 9/11 Memorial Climb is an event of The Bernie Grace Foundation, a non-profit corporation and 501(c)3 tax exempt organization. Credit card statements will show payment to SA110BGF. Your donation may be tax deductible as a charitable contribution to The Bernie Grace Foundation.
"When our leg muscles burn, we remember theirs did too. When we're tired and feel like we can't go any further, we remember them. And that they kept going."
-FF Dawn Solinski, San Antonio 110 Founder/Director