What is Tunnel to Towers?
Tunnel to Towers is a series of 5K runs and walks that take place in cities around the country to celebrate and appreciate first responders who serve, save and sacrifice on our behalf every day. Columbia is home to South Carolina’s Tunnel to Towers race.
When is South Carolina’s race?
The Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers South Carolina 5K Run & Walk is set for Friday, September 15 at 7:00 p.m. in Columbia’s Vista. The picturesque course spans the Gervais Street and Blossom Street bridges at sunset.
Who was Stephen Siller?
The race is named in honor of Stephen Siller, a New York City firefighter and father of five who died on September 11. That day, Siller was off-duty and on his way to play golf. When he heard what was happening at the World Trade Center, he strapped on 60 pounds of gear and ran from the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel to the World Trade Center. He gave his life to save others. The Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation is committed to ensuring that Americans never forget 9/11 and that our children understand the sacrifices made by many on that day.
What does the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation do?
The goal of Tunnel to Towers is to support first responders and military service members who have been catastrophically injured in the line of duty. Proceeds from the 5K will benefit the building of smart homes for quadruple and triple amputee veterans from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan through the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation’s “Building for America’s Bravest” program.
What is the route for Columbia’s event?
The route for the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers South Carolina 5K Run & Walk begins near the First Responders Historic Remembrance Memorial next to the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center on Lincoln Street. Participants will travel down Blossom Street, across the Blossom Street Bridge, into Cayce, up the Gervais Street Bridge and back to Columbia’s Vista in the early evening.
How many years has Columbia’s race taken place?
This is the fifth annual Tunnel to Towers 5K in Columbia. The first one was in 2013.
How many people attend?
South Carolina first responders, law enforcement officers, military service members from all branches of the Armed Forces, avid runners, families and teams from businesses and organizations. More than 2,000 people participated.
What other activities surround the race?
There will be an opening ceremony at 6:30 p.m. and an after party with an awards ceremony, music, food, beverages, vendor booths and family friendly activities after the race.
How do I sign up?
Register for South Carolina’s Tunnel to Towers 5K Walk and Run at www.t2trunsc.org. The entry fee is $30, with discounts for students and First Responders. Importantly, businesses and organizations are encouraged to build a team of participants.
Where can I follow on Social Media?
Follow news and information about September’s Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers South Carolina 5K Run & Walk on social media:
Facebook: Tunnel to Towers South Carolina
Twitter: @T2TSC
Instagram: T2TSC
