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SALT LAKE CITY -- Spectators saw an unusual site at the top of the Grand America Hotel Thursday. People rappelled about 200 feet down the building as a prelude to a fundraiser for the Special Olympics.
Event organizers wanted to do something to really catch people's attention, and this did. Natalie Thornley with Special Olympics Utah said, "We thought, this is something that's different."
On Friday, people who donate $1,000 can go "Over the Edge." Before the big event Friday, a few familiar faces were invited to take the leap. Utah Attorney General Mark Shurtleff said, "It was great. It was a blast!"
"I'm thinking my right hand will get caught, then I'd be stuck, lose my finger, then I'd be on the news," he added.
Shurtleff didn't lose a finger and wished me luck as I made my way up to the roof, 24 stories high.
The view was amazing, or so I later learned after looking at the video. While I was dangling from the rappelling rope, I could focus only on getting my feet back on solid ground. Still, it was thrilling. But one time was enough.
A company called Over the Edge hosts events like this in cities across the country. This is the first time it's ever been done in Utah.
There are 20 spots left for the event on Friday. For more information, CLICK HERE.
E-mail: abutterfield@ksl.com
