New Yorkers Battle Steps in Empire State Building Run-Up Updated February 3, 2010 7:41am

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(DNAinfo/Josh Williams)

By Josh Williams

DNAinfo Reporter/Producer

MIDTOWN — The 33rd annual Empire State Building Run-Up had fitness enthusiasts elated — and short on breath — after climbing 86 stories into the sky.

More than 300 runners competed in the vertical race Tuesday that covers all 1,576 steps of the iconic 34th Street landmark. The event, organized by the New York Road Runners, featured participants from 19 states and 17 countries, all attempting to reach the top of the city's tallest building in mere minutes.

"I run every day three hours — my goal is to make it alive," joked Ginette Dedard, 76, of Howard Beach, Queens, the race's oldest participant, of her fourth time competing. "I feel I can do it. I feel strong and alive."

The men's winner, Germany's Thomas Dold, 25, claimed victory for the fifth-consecutive year with a time of 10 minutes, 16 seconds. New Zealand's Melissa Moon took the women's crown with a time of of 13 minutes, 13 seconds.

New York Road Runners held the 33rd annual Empire State Building Run-Up. (DNAinfo/Josh Williams)

"This is a very silly race. I just try to keep the streak alive now," said retired FDNY fireman Tom Ryan, competing in his 20th race. "There are some phenomenal athletes, but if you go out to fast, it's like getting hit by Mike Tyson," he added.

Christa Harmann, 67, carried more than just her body weight up the 86 flights. She had metal screws inserted in her spine during surgery last June.

"I made it" she said proudly from the finish line on the building's observation deck. "With all my scaffolding inside, it wasn't that bad."

In addition to the individual competitors, five teams representing real estate brokerage firms participated in the event, including a team from Grubb & Ellis and two teams each from CB Richard Ellis and Newmark Knight Frank.