The promise of a pancake breakfast, if nothing else, will get people moving.
Proof came in the form of a massive charge of bodies to the heights of Tower 42 for a taste of Jason Atherton’s wares. The British chef had just announced that he would open his latest eatery City Social in the London tower, which is often referred to as the capital’s original skyscraper.
But it was a far more charitable cause that drove 1,300 people to race up the 920 steps of Tower 42 on Tuesday 4 March: Vertical Rush, the annual event which raises hundreds of thousands of valuable pounds for Shelter.
Teams from City firms including Berkeley Group and Fujitsu were out in force, striding alongside Duncan James and Lee Ryan from the boy band Blue – the former of the two reaching the apex in a breathless eight minutes and 31 seconds – a boast-worthy 41 seconds ahead of his bandmate.
Vertical Rush 2014 was the sixth and biggest fundraising event in Shelter’s 47-year history. To date, 4,500 climbers have participated, raising more than £1.2m for the homeless charity.
Barry Rushmer, general manager of Tower 42, said: “We are delighted to have hosted Vertical Rush in aid of Shelter for the sixth year in a row. It is the biggest stair-climbing event in the capital’s calendar and once again, we have been amazed by the support and enthusiasm of all the runners.
“The charity’s work is more important than ever, so we would like to pass on our congratulations and thanks to all the participants on their efforts. I encourage everyone to dig deep and help Shelter reach its fundraising target.”
• Click here to register for next year’s event – and get an early bird discount.
Rebecca.Kent@estatesgazette.com
