www.rei.com/ClimbforLife

In the first 4 months of 2004, REI and Black Diamond are teaming up with the HERA Foundation to take the Climb for Life to six geographic regions that include 28 stores and local rock gyms.

The event is a month-long personal challenge that will allow individual climbers to test their climbing skills on specially designated Climb for Life routes and earn points towards prizes. Climbers will also be able to challenge their friends to support them by pledging dollars for research and awareness of ovarian cancer. Climbers raising the most money will also get special prizes.

Each city event starts with a kick-off party that includes an inspirational talk by HERA founder, ovarian cancer survivor and climber Sean Patrick, refreshments, goodie bags for registered participants and a Peloton Productions Climb for Life documentary.

A mid-month event will feature a climbing clinic by a nationally-known climber and a slide show. A wrap-up party will celebrate climbers' accomplishments and will include an awards ceremony.

Other sponsors include Climbing Magazine, Beal Ropes and Franklin Climbing Equipment.

For more information go to www.rei.com/climbforlife or contact customer service at participating stores for more information and a schedule of local events and participating gyms.