The Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago (RIC) SkyRise Chicago 2010 November 14, 2010

The Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago (RIC), the nation’s #1 ranked rehabilitation hospital, is pleased to announce the Second Annual SkyRise Chicago 2010 is open for registration. SkyRise Chicago is a one of a kind urban climb event providing two modes of participation – either climb up Willis Tower, the tallest building in the Western hemisphere, or hand-cycle the equivalent distance and elevation. The event will take place on Sunday, November 14 from 7 a.m. until noon at Willis Tower. All proceeds from the event will benefit world-class rehabilitation care and cutting-edge research of RIC.

Each participant, with the exception of elite climbers and hand-cyclists, will have the option to climb as an individual or as part of a team. Stair climbers will ascend 103 floors of Willis Tower, or 2,109 steps, to reach a breathtaking finish line experience from the iconic Skydeck Chicago, offering panoramic views of the city and featuring the glass-floored balconies of The Ledge, 1,353 feet outside the building. Hand-cyclists will use stationary hand-cycles’ mathematically calibrated to match the resistance and distance necessary to ascend Willis Tower’s 103 floors and share the spectacular finish line featuring views of up to four states.

The registration fee for SkyRise Chicago is $50, plus a $100 individual fundraising minimum. There are a number of incentive prizes for top fundraisers, including a Cybex exercise machine, hotel packages and gift certificates to some of Chicago’s hottest events and restaurants. Last year’s nearly 1,800 participants from 31 states and five countries raised $650,000 in support of RIC.

With an even bigger turnout expected for this year, space is limited in both the stair climb and hand-cycle events. Participants will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis and can register at www.skyrisechicago.org. All participants must be pre-registered by October 20, 2010. Those who are unable to participate, but would like to show their support for SkyRise Chicago and RIC can make a donation at www.skyrisechicago.org.

Everyone can soar to great heights! Register for this unique event and support RIC’s excellent patient care and innovative research that has allowed thousands of adults and children their greatest hope for the future.