Team captains, use this link to discover who has joined your team! (https://secure.getmeregistered.com/group_check.php?id=152205)

40 floors, 870 steps, 633 feet in the sky

Saturday, February 15, 2020
First National Tower
1620 Dodge Street
Omaha, NE

Trek Up the Tower is the region’s leading vertical stair climb. A community event presented by WELLCOM, Trek Up the Tower supports WELLCOM’s mission of partnering with employers of all sizes and structures to deliver evidenced-based wellness programming that impacts employee wellbeing and wellness, strengthens the culture, and drives business results.

Participants race to the top of First National Tower in downtown Omaha in this competitive, yet fun event. Trek is ideal for all fitness levels and attracts everyone from elite athletes who race to the top, to participants who are looking to accomplish a personal goal as they climb the stairs slow and steady.

How it Works
Participants register for a specific start time and are released into the stairwell approximately every five seconds. Water breaks and medical aid are available throughout the climb and participant medals are awarded on the 40th floor. The post-event celebration includes complimentary refreshments, a vendor fair, music and photos.

Trek Up the Tower is a competitive, yet fun community event. Please be respectful of other participants and the First National Tower campus. To ensure a safe and fun event, please follow the event rules outlined below:

• All participants must be 16 years or older to climb by 02/15/2020.
  
• Participants may climb the Tower only once. Additional treks may be purchased individually during registration, or through registering for the Premier Pass or Level Up! Vertical Mile Challenge categories.
  
• Participants under the age of 18 are required to have a parent or guardian sign an electronic waiver at time of registration, and sign and return a hardcopy Minor Waiver and Medical Release form to cgreen@elevatingwellness.org. Participants under the age of 18 will not be able to participate if a Minor Waiver and Medical Release form is not received by day of event.
  
• No backpacks or personal bags allowed. Any unattended items will be confiscated and discarded. Complimentary Gear Check is provided.
  
• Coats must be checked in. Complimentary Gear Check is provided.
  
• No spectators inside the First National Tower.
  
• Participants will not be allowed to enter First National Tower prior to selected check-in time.
  
• Participants will enter First National Tower and check in at South Lobby Entrance (16th Street).
  
• Participants will exit First National Tower via the West Wintergarden doors (17th Street).
  
• If participating in costume, the following items are not allowed: masks, face paint, weapons or replica weapons, large instruments, capes or scarves lower than the back of the knee, loose materials such as beads marbles, rubber balls, etc. on the costume, flip-flops or sandals (appropriate running, tennis or athletic shoes only)

Start Times
Trek Up the Tower officially begins at 7:00 a.m. However, you must select a check-in time upon completing your registration. Check-in times are in 15-minute intervals beginning at 7:00 a.m. for Elite Pass Qualifiers, Premier Pass, and Vertical Mile registrants. All other start times begin at 8:00 a.m.

Premier Pass and Vertical Mile participants may begin checking in at 7:00 a.m. Elite Pass qualifiers are highly encouraged to select an early check-in time slot. All other participants will begin checking in at 8:00 a.m. The final check-in time is 11:00 a.m. A limited number of participants are allowed per time slot and slots will close once they are full.

Please arrive to First National Tower at your designated check-in time. You will not be allowed to check-in prior to your selected check-in time. Participants will be able to leave their personal items at Gear-Check, and then proceed to the start line. Participants will be admitted into the stairwell individually every five to six seconds. A line is to be expected, but it does move quickly.

The Venue
WELLCOM thanks our Presenting Sponsor, First National Bank, for generously hosting the 2020 Trek Up the Tower.
First National Tower, downtown Omaha
1620 Dodge Street
Omaha, NE

Grab your coworkers and friends and build a Corporate or Community Trek Up the Tower team. Participating in fitness events like Trek Up the Tower is a great way to build camaraderie, elevate your wellness program and have fun!

Trek Up the Tower is perfect for all fitness levels; so whether you are an avid exercise enthusiast or just getting started, Trek is the perfect team-building activity.

Download resources to help recruit team members including:

• Official Trek Up the Tower poster
  
• Trek Up the Tower toolkit which includes promotional emails, social media posts, and sample timeline
  
• Team Building Challenges
  
• Implementation and Planning Sheet
  
• Trek logo and other theme related graphics

Download the Team Recruitment Kit

Trek Up the Tower has something for everyone. You are welcome to join as an individual or as part of a corporate or community team.

LOOKING FOR AN ADDED CHALLENGE?

LEVEL UP! VERTICAL MILE CHALLENGE: Boost your way up to level 417 and enter this fun, but challenging category. Participants will complete the Trek ten and 1/3 times to equal one vertical mile.

EXTRA CLIMBS: Looking to complete Trek more than once but not quite ready for the Vertical Mile Challenge? Participants can add additional trips for just $15 per climb. Pre-registration is required.

Premier Pass
Need a little extra pampering and peace of mind race morning? Enhance your overall race day experience and get preferential treatment with a Premier Pass. Premier Passes are open to a limited number of 40 participants.
Registration Fee: $125

Benefits

• Packet (including Chip and Bib Number) available on Friday, February 7th at the WELLCOM office
  
• Participant t-shirt, towel, and finisher's medal
  
• Different color of participant Bib Number

Day of Trek Up the Tower

• Up to 10 times going up the tower
  
• VIP Parking Pass
  
• Premier Pass Check-in line and Gear Check
  
• Fast Pass (No waiting in line to climb the stairs)
  
• Individuals who complete the Trek multiple times will be recognized on the website

Please note, there is not an early bird discount or WELLCOM member rate for the Premier Pass.

Level Up! Vertical Mile Challenge
Ready for the ultimate Trek challenge? Climb up the tower 10 and 1/3 times to complete one vertical mile.
Registration Fee: $150

Benefits

• Different color of participant Bib Number
  
• Participant t-shirt, towel, and finisher's medal
  
• Fast Pass (No waiting in line to climb the stairs)
  
• Individuals who complete the Vertical Mile will be recognized on the website
  
• Finisher's prize

Day of Trek Up the Tower

First and foremost, Trek Up the Tower is about enjoying fitness in a fun way!

We know you work hard and we want to help you celebrate your accomplishment. All finishers will receive a commemorative medal on the 40th floor.

For participants looking for a more competitive environment, we offer a variety of awards in age, gender, and team categories.

Celebrate in Style: Award Medals
All participants who reach the 40th Floor will receive a commemorative medal at the top of the First National Tower (T-shirts are distributed at the Post Party in the Wintergarden).
Prizes
For those looking to make their mark in stair-climbing history, cash awards will be presented in the following individual categories:

• Top Three Male and Female finishers overall
  
• Male and Female “Masters” prize for the Top Male and Top Female over the age of 40
  
• Top male and female individual with the fastest combined time (for all 10 and 1/3 trips) in the Level Up! Vertical Mile Challenge

Age Categories for Certificates
Certificates will be awarded to the top three male and female finishers in each age category:
16-18
19-24
25-29
30-34
35-39
40-44
45-49
50-54
55-59
60-64
65-69
70 and Over

Verbal Recognition
Individuals who make the Trek multiple times will be listed on the Trek Up the Tower website.
Winners of the different categories will be posted and announced once the final participant has completed the race at approximately 11:30 a.m. Join us at the Post Party in the Wintergarden.

Corporate and Community Team Challenge
Recognizing that our Corporate Teams love a little challenge, we will present the Corporate and Community Team Champion Awards at WELLCOM’s Wellness Awards Gala.

There are two Corporate Team Categories:

Corporate Team Small Business (1 to 100 Employees)
The best average time of the top four finishers (two participants must be of the opposite sex) of each team will determine the winners in the team category. To win the Corporate Team Small Business category, the top four (4) qualifying times must be from paid employees of the business.

Corporate Team Large Business (101+ Employees)
The best average time of the top six finishers (three participants must be of the opposite sex) of each team will determine the winners in the team category. To win the Corporate Team Large business category, the top six (6) qualifying times must be from paid employees of the business.

Community Team Challenge
The best average time of the top five finishers, (two participants must be of the opposite sex) will determine the winning team in this category. The Community Team Challenge is perfect for students, families, church groups, or any other community group.

2020 Post Party
Join us for food, music and vendors in the First National Tower Wintergarden.

• Celebrate with fellow Trekkers
  
• Chat with exhibitors at our vendor fair
  
• Pick up your event T-shirt
  
• Enjoy refreshments and music
  
• Snag a photo with your shiny new medal!

Winners of the different categories will be posted and announced once the final participant has completed the race at approximately 11:30 a.m.

Overview
Does Trek support a charitable cause?
Yes. Trek Up the Tower supports WELLCOM, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to worksite wellness. Registration fees help cover the cost of the event and support WELLCOM’s mission. A portion of the entry fee is tax deductible.

What are vertical stair climbs?
Held across the globe, vertical stair climbs are rising in popularity. Like Trek Up the Tower, many take place within a skyscraper; some are held outdoors in stadiums and even up ski slopes. They are a creative way to test your endurance and participate in a community wellness event.

How tall is the tower?
The First National Tower consists of 40 floors and 870 steps. The tower extends 633 feet into the sky and is the tallest building between Denver and Chicago.

Are there sponsorship opportunities?
There are several opportunities to sponsor Trek Up the Tower. To learn more, please visit the Sponsorships page or contact WELLCOM at 402-934-5795.

Registration Categories
Is this an individual or team event?
Both. Corporate and community teams are encouraged, but you also can participate as an individual.

What is a premier pass?
Premier Pass holders receive VIP benefits such as early packet pick up, no waiting in line, and more. Learn more.

What is the Level Up! Vertical Mile?
This category is for Trekkers looking for an added challenge. Participants will climb the tower 10 and 1/3 times, or one vertical mile, to complete the challenge.

What is an Elite Pass?
- Male: Prior Trek Up the Tower time of seven minutes or less.
- Female: Prior Trek Up the Tower time of eight minutes or less.

Registration
Is there an age limit?
You must be 16 years of age or older by 02/15/2020 to participate.

Is the event open to the public or just WELLCOM members?
Trek Up the Tower is open to the public. WELLCOM members have the opportunity to register early at a discounted rate.

How do I register as a team captain?
Click on the "Create a Team" registration category and simply follow the instructions.

Are refunds available if I need to cancel?
There are no refunds for this event.

What is included in registration?
Each participant will receive a long-sleeve, dry-fit T-shirt, and a finisher's medal upon completion. Prizes will be awarded in various categories. The Post Party also features refreshments, music, a vendor fair and photographs.

Can companies cover a portion of the registration fees?
Absolutely. Financially incenting your employees to participate is a great way to grow your team and show your support for community wellness. Request your Discount Code online. You can choose to cover a portion of the registration fee or the entire amount. Contact WELLCOM at 402-934-5795 for more information.

Can we make the trek more than once?
Yes. We have several options available for individuals looking to make the journey multiple times.
- Additional climbs may be PRE-PURCHASED for $15 per extra climb.
- Premier Passes are available for $125 and allow you to climb the Tower up to 10 times during the event. The number of climbs must be designated prior to the event.
-The Level Up! Vertical Mile Challenge is a unique competition that allows you to make 10 and 1/3 trips up the tower, which equals one vertical mile.

Training
Can we practice at the tower before the event?
No, unfortunately we cannot allow participants to use the stairs in the tower before the day of the event.

Is there a recommended training regimen?
Yes. Training options are available at trekupthetower.org.

Logistics
Where do I check in for the event?
Participant Check-In will be in the Main Lobby of First National Tower located at 16th and Dodge Street Entrance. Please view the event map for additional details.

Is gear check available?
A Gear Check will be provided to all participants where they can store their personal belongings and pick them up at the completion. Participants are requested not to bring extra items. Coats, shoes, keys, phones, etc. must be checked in after entering the building. Bags are not allowed. A gear check bag will be provided.

What parking is available?
Parking expenses are the responsibility of the participant and will not be reimbursed. Parking is available throughout downtown Omaha.

Is Medical/First Aid available?
Yes, emergency response teams will be located on various floors throughout the tower.

Are there water stations during the event?
Yes, water stations will be set up on various floors throughout the tower. Participants may also step off to the side and rest if needed.

Are results available online?
Results are available following the conclusion of the event. View previous year results: 2019 results 2018 results

Can my family and friends attend as a spectator?
Trek Up the Tower is not a spectator event. Family and friends are not encouraged to attend due to event logistics and space requirements.

How will we get down?
Participants will use the elevators to return to the ground floor. Participants will not be allowed to use the stairs to descend.

Do we have a chance to look around once we reach the top?
Yes, a few minutes will be given to each participant once they reach the top to look out the windows.

Volunteer
Are there volunteer opportunities?
Yes, we have several opportunities available for volunteers. Learn more. Volunteers receive a $15 discount code to use during registration.

Can I volunteer and participate?
Yes. Volunteers are encouraged to also participate in the event. You must register separately to volunteer and to participate. All volunteers receive a $15 discount to participate in the event. Once you are successfully register to volunteer you will receive a conformation email with the discount code. Please use this discount code when you register to participate in Trek Up the Tower

Where should I park as a volunteer? Does it cost money to park?
Parking expenses are the responsibility of the volunteer and will not be reimbursed. Parking is available throughout downtown Omaha including metered street parking and parking garages.

Can I register to volunteer in more than one category?
Many of the volunteer categories overlap during the event so it makes it difficult to volunteer for more than one category. We recommend you register for only one volunteer category per date.

What do I get for volunteering?
The satisfaction of helping at an incredible event! You also get fun, friends, networking a free volunteer t-shirt, and a discount to use if you climb the tower yourself!

WELLCOM is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that works to improve worksite wellness efforts throughout the Midwest. Founded in 1982 by William M. Kizer, WELLCOM serves hundreds of employers by providing training, personal support and resources. Learn more.

The mission of WELLCOM is to partner with employers of all sizes to deliver evidenced-based programming that advances a culture of worksite wellness and workforce health as an integral component of business success.

Are you looking for an opportunity to promote your brand to thousands of individuals who are interested in health and wellness? Trek Up the Tower offers a number of sponsorship packages to help showcase your brand. Contact WELLCOM to learn about the 2020 sponsorship opportunities.

Act early to increase your exposure during our busy registration period!

Benefits of Sponsoring Trek Up the Tower
- Omaha's premier indoor/winter racing event for 13 years and running
- 74 percent of participants are from corporate/community teams
- Thousands visit the event website leading up to the event
- Nearly 2,000 racers climb the tower
- Average participant age is 39 years old

View the Sponsorship Packages: [http://www.trekupthetower.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/2020-Trek-Sponsorship-Packet.pdf] Click here[/url].

Exhibit at the 2020 Trek Up the Tower Post Party
The Trek Up the Tower Post Party is the perfect opportunity to network with hundreds of wellness enthusiasts following the event. Join us for food, music and vendors in the First National Tower Wintergarden.

Exhibit Information: Exhibit at the Post Party

For event-related questions, please click on the Contact the Organizers button on the left-hand side of this page.