Before the sun rose over Charles D. Owen High School, the stands at Warhorse Stadium filled with energy, reflection, and purpose. The fifth annual “Stampede on the Stairs” event drew students, staff, first responders, athletes, and community members together in a moving tribute to the fallen heroes of September 11, 2001.
Now in its fifth year, the event has become a meaningful tradition in the Owen community—honoring the sacrifices made 24 years ago and reminding all who attend of the strength found in unity. Organized as a stair-climbing challenge, teams make their way through the stadium steps carrying segments of a retired fire hose—each one labeled with the name of a first responder who lost their life on 9/11.
“Current students at Owen High School weren’t even born yet, but we’ve learned about what happened on this day in 2001,” said junior Kameron Creasman of the Owen High School JROTC program. “We’ve also learned what happened in the days that followed. People across the country came together, giving blood, volunteering, making a difference. This event has that same spirit, the Owen community coming together, from our current and former students, to our school leaders, to first responders, to veterans. We even have principals from the Erwin and North Buncombe districts united with us.”
Cheering filled the air as students lined the stadium to encourage participants, turning a somber remembrance into a moment of shared pride and support. It was a powerful show of solidarity across all ages and roles in the community.
In the spirit of healthy competition, the Owen football team earned first place, completing the climb with determination and teamwork. For their efforts, they were awarded the challenge coin by members of the local fire departments and Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO). The baseball team claimed second place, and the volleyball team rounded out the top three.
Though teams compete for bragging rights, the heart of the event remains unchanged: honoring the courage, sacrifice, and legacy of the first responders who ran toward danger on one of the darkest days in American history.
As the event closed with a moment of reflection, one thing was clear—“Stampede on the Stairs” is far more than a race. It’s a reminder that the Owen community remembers, honors, and stands together.
See more photos of the event here.