Stair Climb Challenge To Honor Sept. 11 First Responders At Bayville Gym

BERKELEY, NJ — This year marks 24 years since the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. To honor those who gave their lives during this horrific event, Retro Fitness Bayville is partnering with Tunnel to Towers Foundation (T2T) for the gym's annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb Challenge this Sept. 11.

Retro Fitness clubs across the country raise funds to support the foundation's mission to provide mortgage-free homes to Gold Star and fallen first responder families, build specially adapted smart homes for injured veterans, and working to end military veteran homelessness.

“Our clubs have always been about more than just fitness; they are about bringing communities together,” said Andrew Alfano, CEO of Retro Fitness. “Through our partnership with Tunnel to Towers, we’re uniting our members and neighbors nationwide to honor the heroes of 9/11 and to stand alongside first responders, veterans and their families.”

From Sept. 1 through 15, Retro Fitness clubs nationwide will offer members the opportunity to donate to the T2T Foundation with every point-of-sale purchase at the company’s Smoothie Bars and Pro Shops.

And the Bayville location will hold a 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb Challenge featuring a 110-flight challenge, symbolizing the number of floors in the World Trade Center towers. The tribute includes two dedicated “110 Strong” classes at 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., with each one-hour session focused on completing all 110 flights of stairs. Moments of silence will be observed throughout the morning in honor of key times associated with Sept. 11, 2001.

Throughout the day, guests can enjoy raffles for prizes from local businesses, free samples of healthy snack options from Retro Fitness-approved vendors, and sip smoothies crafted exclusively for the event. Participants who take on and complete the stair climb challenge will also receive a commemorative t-shirt.

All area first responders are invited to attend and utilize the club’s facilities regardless of membership status. The event is also open to all community members, with confirmed participation from the New Jersey State Police, U.S. Marines, Army, and other military organizations.

While registration for the event is not necessary, those interested in classes can register starting Sept. 4 via the Retro Fitness app or by visiting the club (333 Atlantic City Blvd.) on Sept. 11

“These tributes remind us that fitness is about more than physical strength. It’s also about resilience and unity,” Alfano said. “By opening our gyms to the community for this meaningful giveback effort, climbing together and standing together, we honor the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice and their families. We’re inspiring our communities to live with purpose.”