This is the second year a local group has organized the fundraiser for locals to go “Over the Edge.”
They'll be able to rappel down one of Fresno’s landmark buildings. It all goes to support the Fresno Ice Rink.
A birds-eye view of downtown, the heart of Fresno. Adrenaline rushing as you're over the edge rappelling from the 15-story landmark building, The Pacific Southwest.
"It was great, until I kind of got hung up halfway, but it gave me a chance to enjoy the view a little longer," said Captain Greg Garner of the Fresno Police Department.
Several people including Captain Garner from the Fresno Police Department and myself got the chance to rappel from the building. The event was a preview of what's to be expected at the 'Over the Edge' fundraiser Saturday. Each person rappelling will donate $1,000.
The money will be a kick-start for the downtown ice rink which is coming back in November.
So far, around 50 people are signed up to go over the edge.
The group hosting the event, Downtown Fresno Partnership, believes the ice rink will help revitalize the downtown economy.
"It's not only family friendly, it's good exercise, it's a holiday tradition and we want to create those traditions and have those happening in downtown. So, it's about creating something special and unique that people will remember forever," said Kate Borders with the Downtown Fresno Partnership.
The "Over the Edge" event will be more festive than last year. You can expect a ping pong tournament, beer garden, DJ and craft vendors. Many onlookers Friday said they're just fine with watching.
"I'm afraid of heights, so you wouldn't see me coming down there," said Jean Tomasetti, a spectator.
The ping pong winner at the event Saturday will get to rappel for free. All of the proceeds will go directly to the ice skating rink.
"I think my next daredevil act will be learning how to ice skate so I can actually learn to use the ice skating rink," said Captain Garner.
The event starts Saturday at 8AM and runs until 4PM. Spots to rappel are still open. If you don't have the $1,000 the organization is giving away a free rappel to the winner of the ping pong tournament. There will also be a raffle to win a chance to rappel for free.