It shouldn’t come as a surprise that the top New Year’s resolution last year was to stay fit and healthy. If you’re looking to rack up more steps on your Fitbit in 2016, you can get a head start on your personal goal at Bop to the Top on January 16.

This isn’t just a walk around your neighborhood block: participants race to the top of the OneAmerica Tower in downtown Indy. For those doing the math at home, that’s 36 floors, 780 steps, and 500 feet.

 

Now in its 33rd year, Bop to the Top is an annual fundraiser for Riley Children’s Hospital. Last year’s heart-pumping ascent raised over $10,000 for the kids. That adds up to a $500,000 contribution to Riley over the past three decades!

Up for the challenge? Here’s what you need to know:

  • Starts at 8:30 am on Saturday, January 16 at the OneAmerica Tower
  • Free parking is available in the lots directly north of the building. Visitors can park in the parking garage off of Illinois Street or the surface lot off of Capitol Avenue
  • Check your gear in the lobby
  • Participants start one at a time, with a runner released approximately every 30 seconds
  • Participants seeds are determined based on previous stairclimb or 5K time
  • Freshen up at the Indy Bike Hub YMCA, which is offering free showers and use of its locker room.
  • Awards are handed out at 12:30 pm on the first floor

If you’d rather cheer runners on, volunteers are needed to help with event logistics. No matter your physical fitness level, this event is open to all ages and abilities (we won’t judge if you take the elevator down). Register online in advance or at the door on race day. Best of luck boppin’!