The American Lung Association in Florida is organizing the Fight For Air Climb Miami at loanDepot park on Sunday, March 9, 2025. The event aims to fund research, prevent lung disease, and save lives. Metro-Dade Firefighters IAFF Local 1403 will be the Presenting Sponsor, continuing their partnership since the event'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 accommodates all participants from beginners to competitive climbers and first responders in gear. Participants will climb 1,700 stairs at loanDepot park, home of the Miami Marlins. This marks the fourth consecutive year that this venue hosts the event.
A significant aspect of this event is the participation of firefighters and first responders. Last year saw over 300 first responders from South Florida participating 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 also noted: “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.”
Participants can also compete in or try out an untimed version of the Third Annual Firefighter Challenge—a four-obstacle endurance course run by Metro Dade Firefighters IAFF Local 1403.
Joining this event supports efforts by the Lung Association to combat lung cancer, improve air quality, lessen lung disease burdens on individuals and families, and promote a tobacco-free future.
Registration is open with early bird registration available until November 17 for $15; there is a $100 fundraising minimum required. More details can be found at ClimbMiami.org.
