FAQs

REGISTRATION FEE

All participants will be charged a registration fee that will not count towards your fundraising total for incentives. The registration fee is $40 but increases to $50 on March 30th.

 

FUNDRAISING

Is there a fundraising minimum?
There is no fundraising minimum but all Big Climb participants are encouraged to fundraise for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s mission. In 2022, Big Climb participants raised an average of $600. Set your goal and get started today!

Where do my donations go?
All donations from Big Climb help support the mission of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society: to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and to help improve the quality of life of patients and their families.

When is the fundraising deadline?
To receive a Big Climb Tech T-shirt, you must reach $250 raised prior to the event day. You also have the opportunity to continue to fundraise after the event to further support The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s mission to cure blood cancer. The more you raise, the more you are rewarded. Check out the recognition page for more information.

 

GENERAL EVENT

What is the age minimum allowed to climb?
The National guidance is 8 years or older to climb, however we are leaving it up to the parents/guardian’s judgement. All children will be required to climb with an adult. All participants will sign a waiver. No exceptions.

How do teams work?
When you sign up as a team, you are signing up to climb at the same time slot. Waves are allotted every 15 minutes and are assigned 2 weeks prior. If your start time does not work for you, please let us know and we will accommodate you the best we can!

When will wave times be assigned?
Wave times will be posted here on April 21st.

 

DAY OF EVENT

What are the health & safety protocols?
We ask all climbers to respect each other by frequently sanitizing and maintaining social distance. Facial coverings are optional. We no longer require a wellness screening or vaccine verification.

What time does the event start?
The gates will open at 8:00 a.m. The first wave will start at 9:00 a.m. and waves will start every 15 minutes following.

What time should I arrive?
Please arrive 45-60 minutes before your wave time to allow for check-in, group photos and warm up. Please go to the Check-In tent to receive your bib and sign your waiver before entering Base Camp.
Please note: Team Captains cannot check in their entire team. Each individual must check in themselves.

Where should I enter the stadium?
All climbers should enter through the WEST GATE, located just south of Lot A (see map below).

Where can I park?
Parking is available in Parking Lot A and Lot S on Perimeter Road, next to Arthur Ashe Tennis Stadium (see map). Specific directions will be included in your Event Day email.

Can I take public transportation to/from the event?
If traveling by subway: The 7 train provides service from Grand Central Terminal to Mets-Willets Point Station, including connections for all Metro-North Trains from Westchester and Connecticut. Service is also available from the Port Authority Bus Terminal.
If traveling by Long Island Railroad: LIRR provides easy service to Mets-Willets Point Station from Woodside, and has convenient connections from Penn Station for New Jersey Transit customers. Guests with disabilities should get off the LIRR train at 61st Street-Woodside Station and transfer to the 7 train. Take the 7 train to Mets-Willets Point Station.

The MTA website provides complete schedules and information about the most convenient ways to get to the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.

Can I bring anything with me during the climb other than my phone?
Baby carriers and small purses are permitted.

Is there a bag check area provided?
Yes, all items can be checked but please refrain from bringing large luggage.

Where do I line up for my climb time?
Announcements will be made 15 minutes prior to your start time. You will begin lining up in the Safety Spotlight area.

Where are water stops?
There will be two water stops, with sports drink also available, placed throughout the stadium. There is also water for climbers at the finish and when you return to Base Camp.

Can my friends and family wait for me at the finish line?
Your friends and family may wait for you at the finish line area. Every person must be registered for the event to enter the arena, including spectators and those not climbing. All those not climbing will be escorted to the finish line.

Will food be available at the event?
Stop by base camp to grab a snack, coffee, and drinks before and after your climb!

What happens if it rains?
In the event of extreme weather, a rain date will be announced. Otherwise, the event is rain or shine so please wear appropriate clothing. Participants will not be allowed to climb with an umbrella.

Can I bring my dog?
Unfortunately, dogs and other animals are not allowed at the event.

Are strollers allowed at the event?
Strollers are allowed onsite but will not be allowed on the climb route.