The annual Bop to the Top Stair Climb is scheduled to take place this coming Saturday, Jan. 22, beginning at 8:30 a.m. at the One America Tower in downtown Indianapolis. One America is located at 200 N. Illinois St.
Participants are invited to climb the 36 floors of the OneAmerica Tower. There are 780 steps in all. All ages and abilities are welcome. The climb can be made as an individual or as part of a team. There is also a Triple Step option that allows you to complete the climb three different times.
This incredible event, now in its 39th year, is a third-party fundraiser for the Riley Children’s Foundation. Nearly $1 million has been raised so far for the Foundation.
Riley Children’s Foundation is the fundraising arm of Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health and the founding organization that opened Riley Hospital in 1924. Today Riley Hospital is recognized as one of the best children’s hospitals in the nation and is the only comprehensive children’s research hospital in the state of Indiana.
Tuxedo Brothers has been involved in Bop to the Top for the past 36 years.
Tuxedo Brothers is an event management company owned and operated by brothers, Don and Phil Carr. In the early days, the brothers wore tuxedos to the events, the idea being to add a touch of class. After a few events, however, their dress changed to a more reasonable sports attire, but the name, Tuxedo Brothers, remained.
Since 1984, Tuxedo Brothers has managed more than 1,000 runs, walks and triathlons benefiting service and charitable organizations.
Don Carr, President of Tuxedo Brothers, along with his brother, says he is extremely pleased to be part of this legacy. “I can’t tell you what it means to be a part of such a meaningful event. To be able to help Riley Children’s Foundation work toward their mission is what it’s all about – especially in these continuously challenging times.”
Carr is referring to the increase in COVID-19 cases among children, including those at Riley. Admissions of COVID patients at Riley have been on the rise. With that in mind, there will be no ‘Riley kids’ speaking at the event this year as in years past. However, Emily Nichols, the mother of a Riley kid, will be present to speak about her child’s experience with Riley.
Also, out of respect to the dangers of COVID-19, a virtual option is being made available for participants. The in-person event will take place on Jan. 22, but virtual participation will take place from Jan. 17 to 31.
Overall and Age-Group awards will be provided for those who want to get competitive in Bop to the Top, but it is not required. Those who simply want to take their time and climb the stairs are also encouraged to come out.
Sign up now at getmeregistered.com/bop. You can still register through Friday, Jan. 21. If you would like to volunteer for the event, you also need to register at the above address by Jan. 21.