Bristol, Tennessee, September 7, 2025
News Summary
The 11th annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb took place at Bristol Motor Speedway with around 700 participants honoring fallen firefighters and first responders. Participants climbed the equivalent of 110 stories while carrying the names of those who perished on September 11, 2001, emphasizing community support and ongoing remembrance. The event raised nearly half a million dollars for charities benefiting first responders and their families, showcasing a collective commitment to honoring sacrifices made during the tragic events.
Bristol, Tennessee – Approximately 700 participants gathered at the Bristol Motor Speedway on September 7, 2025, for the 11th annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. This event honors the bravery and sacrifice of fallen firefighters and first responders by having participants climb the equivalent of 110 stories in various stairwells and stands throughout the venue.
The event was organized by the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol, demonstrating strong community support for commemorating the events of September 11, 2001. Each climber carried the name of a fallen first responder and rang a bell upon finishing their climb to honor their memory. Organizers highlighted that the stair climb is recognized as one of the largest in the country, showcasing the ongoing commitment to remembering those who sacrificed their lives during the tragic events of 9/11.
Since its inception, the stair climb has raised nearly half a million dollars for local and national charities that support first responders and their families. Event organizers emphasized the importance of educating younger generations about the significance of September 11, 2001. Andrew Catron, an event organizer, expressed gratitude for the community’s participation, underlining the event’s crucial role in fostering remembrance and reflection.
Among the participants were Kort and Megan Boring, parents who experienced the event together with their children. Kort Boring, a Navy veteran, shared that his decision to serve was greatly influenced by 9/11, reflecting on its long-lasting impact on the nation and its communities. Megan Boring noted the togetherness displayed by the community during the climb, reinforcing the event’s significance as more than just personal remembrance but as a collective acknowledgment of past sacrifices.
The 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb serves as a poignant reminder of how history shapes the future. Participants not only honor the fallen but also commit to carrying forward the lessons learned from that day, ensuring that the memory of those who lost their lives is not forgotten. The event creates a space for shared reflection and the reaffirmation of community ties, reminding everyone of the values of bravery and service that arose in the aftermath of the attacks.
This annual gathering is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and an opportunity for participants and spectators alike to come together to grieve, remember, and celebrate the heroism of first responders. As the community continues this tradition, the stair climb remains a vital event in recognizing the sacrifices made on September 11 and inspiring future generations to uphold those values.
FAQ
What is the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb?
The 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb is an annual event commemorating the fallen firefighters and first responders of September 11, 2001, where participants climb the equivalent of 110 stories.
When did the 2025 event take place?
The 2025 event occurred on September 7, as part of its 11th annual celebration.
Who organizes the event?
The event is organized by the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol.
How has the event contributed to charity?
Since its inception, the event has raised nearly half a million dollars for charities that support first responders and their families.
Key Features of the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Participants | Approximately 700 individuals |
| Structure of Climb | Equivalence of 110 stories climbed |
| Organizer | Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol |
| Charity Fundraising | Nearly $500,000 raised since inception |
| Importance of Education | Focus on educating younger generations about 9/11 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tri-Cities Commemorates 9/11 Heroes with Annual Stair Climb
Additional Resources
- WCYB: 911 Memorial Stair Climb at Bristol Motor Speedway
- Wikipedia: September 11 Attacks
- The Tennessean: NASCAR Bristol Race Ticket Packages
- Google Search: NASCAR Bristol Race 2025
- WSET: Firefighters Respond to Vacant Structure Fire in Bedford
- Google Scholar: Firefighter Safety
- The Tennessean: NASCAR Bristol Race Last Minute Tickets
- Encyclopedia Britannica: NASCAR
- Journal Courier: Landmark Streetcar in Lisbon Derails
- Google News: Lisbon Streetcar Derailment
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
