Once you finish your climb

Help—Frequently asked questions

How long does a typical climb take?
Most reasonably-fit people should be able to finish all 42 floors in less than 45 minutes, but climbers can take as many breaks as necessary as long as they finish their route by 9:00 pm. Check out 2011 climbers' time results.

Where and at what time does the "finish line party" take place?
The finish line party will be held from 7:15–9:00 pm on the 35th floor.

What happens when I finish my climb?
All of the routes—82, 42 and 25 flights—are structured to end on the building's roof, where each climber will be photographed with the Empire State Building or other landmarks as a backdrop (you may decline to be photographed, if you prefer). All climbers are welcome to spend a few minutes on the roof to celebrate and enjoy the beautiful view of Manhattan before descending three flights of stairs to the elevators on the 39th floor. Everyone is invited to our finish line party (35th floor) until 9:00 pm. Please note that there is no elevator service from the roof, so once you reach the roof you must climb down three flights, via a different stairwell, to access the elevator to the 35th floor.

Am I required to go to the roof when I finish my climb?
No, if you prefer to not climb to the roof, you will need to end your climb on the 40th floor, where you can access an elevator. Please note that your timing chip will not register a time for you if you do not reach the roof.

Can I get a copy of photos taken of me?
Yes, photos will be made available to participants, and we will email registrants with more information following the event.

Please be aware that by consenting to be photographed at Story by Story^®, you are giving inMotion permission to use your image on its web site and print pieces and to share your image with media outlets. If you do not wish to be photographed, please alert inMotion's photographers during the event.

How do I find out my personal time?

All climbers will be given an individual timing chip when they check in.Timing chips will be attached to your shoe (please wear a shoe with laces).

Once all climbers have completed their routes, a printout of climbers’ times will be available at the Help Desk at the Finish Line party on the 35th floor. A link to climbers’ times will also be emailed to all participants a few days after the event.

Can I continue to fundraise after the event?
Yes, you can continue fundraising until Friday, November 16. We encourage everyone to take advantage of the post-event period to continue their fundraising—every little bit helps inMotion and you might become eligible for a fundraising prize or honor!

What happens if I am unable to raise the $100 fundraising minimum?
You can make a personal donation to cover the minimum if you are unable to raise the full amount from your network of contacts. You have until Friday, November 16 to raise $100 from others or make your own personal donation.

How do I or my contacts receive credit for tax-deductible donations to Story by Story?
InMotion is a 501(c)3 organization, and all donations are 100% tax-deductible. Upon making your online donation, automatically you will receive an email confirmation. Please keep a hard copy of the email as a receipt for your tax records. Donations made by check or cash will be acknowledged by letter after the event.