Don't walk...Don't Run...Climb! Climb to win! Register today at Scale The Strat.

On March 13 and 14, the Stratosphere Hotel & Casino, the American Lung Association in Nevada (ALAN) and Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield will team up to host the second annual extreme athletic event with proceeds going to prevent lung disease and promote lung health here in Southern Nevada. The Stratosphere is also offering special rates during the Scale the Strat event: Friday, March 12th & Saturday, March 13th rooms for just $59.99, and Sunday March 14th only $29.99! For reservations call 1-800-99TOWER and mention reservation code: SCALE or visit www.stratospherehotel.com

Not for the average couch potato or for people who are afraid of heights, Scale the Strat is a 108-floor, 1,455-step vertical ascent of the inside of the Stratosphere Tower. The event will be limited to the first 400 climbers to register on-line at www.scalethestrat.com. The climb is one usually experienced only by emergency personnel, fire fighters or police.

“The American Lung Association has been a favorite charity of our employees for several years now,” said CEO Frank Riolo of American Casino & Entertainment Properties. “Last year’s inaugural event was a huge success. The partnership is a natural for the Stratosphere both because of our Tower and because of our employees’ support of the American Lung Association. It is important for us to give back to the community.”

Stair climbs have become unique, signature fundraising events for the American Lung Association over the past several years. They are usually held in prominent skyscrapers and involve climbing the stairs to the top floor. Sometimes called a “vertical road race,” participants can use the event as a fitness target or a competitive race, with individuals and teams challenging each other to win the race while raising money for the American Lung Association.

“Last year’s event attracted climbers from all over the United States, Canada, Mexico and even Germany,” said ALAN Executive Director Allison Newlon Moser. “Las Vegas is a famous destination and the Stratosphere is a famous Las Vegas icon. We already have climbers registered from several states. Much as athletes from all over the world travel to marathons like Iron Man Triathlon in Hawaii or the Boston Marathon, the stair climb is becoming a popular destination for athletes, fitness buffs and corporate teams across the country.”

This climb is not for beginners. The first 26 flights are configured like a typical stairwell while the upper flights are suspended inside the middle of the hollow tower with open air on each side. Individuals and teams will race for the fastest times and most fundraising dollars. It is an opportunity to compete for bragging rights while getting a great workout.

The event is limited to the first 400 participants who are 21 years of age or older. There will be two qualifying events on Saturday, March 13th, starting at 10am and 2pm. The top 50 climbers with the fastest climb times will compete on Sunday, March 14th for the ultimate “Climb-Off”. Registration is $50, and climbers are also asked to make a minimum fundraising pledge of $250 to the American Lung Association. The ALA provides online support and personal fundraising coaching to help climbers achieve their fundraising goal. Event sponsor Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is providing online training and fitness tips. Detailed event and registration information can be found at www.scalethestrat.com .

ALAN has been improving the lives of Nevadans since 1916 when it was founded as the Nevada Tuberculosis Association to combat the devastating disease of tuberculosis (TB). Although the focus of the organization has changed due to its successful work in almost completely eradicating TB, ALAN has remained constant in the fight against lung diseases and the promotion of lung health. Lung disease is the fourth leading cause of death in America and ALAN is often the first point of contact for individuals with lung disease. ALAN provides practical help and education to people living with asthma, emphysema, and other lung diseases, confronting this disease at the root level by educating kids about the dangers of smoking, providing smoking cessation programs, advocating for smoke-free environments, and working to reduce air pollution.