The fifth annual Black Squirrel 5K Race, named after Kent State’s unofficial mascot, will be Saturday, April 11 at 8 a.m.

“We did an assessment of the annual Bowman Race that’s held in the fall back in 2010,” said Greg Bailey, assistant director of intramural sports, community leagues and sports clubs. “Participants wanted a race that was held during the spring, so now we have the Black Squirrel Race. It’s a service to the community as a wellness initiative.”

Bailey said he hopes to see about 700 people participate, which is slightly higher than last year’s turnout.

According to the Kent State website, participants will run a loop around campus, starting and finishing at the Student Recreation and Wellness Center. When runners finish, they will be treated to a free breakfast buffet. A raffle will also take place where prizes including $50 gift cards to Dick’s and Sheetz will be awarded.

An award ceremony will be held for the top three male and female finishers in each age group, according to the event’s website.

Though the deadline for registration has already passed, walk-ons are welcome to register for a fee of $30 per person.

Contact McKenzie Jean-Philippe at [email protected].