Climbing for the Fallen: Xander's 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb

Climbing for the Fallen

On Saturday 27th June 2026, Coal Harbour's Xander joined fellow firefighters at Ashton Gate Stadium in Bristol for a deeply moving and physically demanding memorial stair climb event — a powerful act of remembrance and preparation for one of the most significant events in the firefighting calendar.

The climb: 110 floors. 2,090 steps. The equivalent height of the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center.

What Is the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb?

The 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb is a tribute to the 343 firefighters who lost their lives on 11th September 2001 — the largest single loss of life for any emergency service in history. Each year, firefighters from around the world come together to honour their memory by climbing the equivalent height of the Twin Towers in full firefighting kit.

This September, Xander will travel to Atlanta, USA, to take part in the main event — and he will be one of exactly 343 British firefighters travelling to make the climb, one for every hero lost on that day.

Training at Ashton Gate

The Bristol event on 27th June was a preparation climb — a chance for participants to experience the physical and mental demands of completing 110 floors and 2,090 steps in full firefighting kit and breathing apparatus, before the main event in Atlanta.

Looking at the photo taken on the pitch at Ashton Gate, the smiles say it all — but make no mistake, this is an extraordinary physical undertaking. To complete it in full kit, in the summer heat, is a testament to the fitness, determination, and commitment of every firefighter who took part.

We couldn't be more proud of Xander for taking on this challenge and representing Coal Harbour — and the fire service — on such a meaningful occasion.

343 — A Number That Means Everything

The number 343 is not just a statistic. It represents 343 individuals — fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, colleagues, and friends — who ran towards danger on that September morning and never came home. For the firefighting community around the world, it is a number that carries profound weight and enduring significance.

By taking part in this climb, Xander and his fellow firefighters ensure that their sacrifice is never forgotten.

Support Xander and the Memorial Climb

If you'd like to find out more about the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb or show your support, visit memorialstairclimb.co.uk.

We'll be cheering Xander every step of the way this September. 🇺🇸🔥

— The Coal Harbour Team