Binghamton University will host its fourth annual 5K race, known as “Tour DeFleur,” on campus this Saturday.

The event will be held near the East Gym at 11 a.m., and is expected to bring in more participants and spectators than ever before.

“Last year’s race had about 70 runners,” said Cindy Cowden, associate director of BU campus recreational services. “Each year the numbers have increased. This year we hope to top 100 runners.”

All proceeds from the race will go to the Eating Awareness Committee on campus.

“The committee uses these funds to support educational programming, consultations and referrals to services for students struggling with eating disorders … body image issues or general nutrition or exercise-related concerns,” Cowden said.

According to Cowden, the Eating Awareness Committee is always interested in working with students to find out what their important health issues are so they can be addressed by speakers and programs brought to campus.

After the race, prizes will be awarded to the top three male and female finishers, as well as to the top male and female finisher in each age category (which includes 0 to 15; 16 to 19; 20 to 29; 30 to 39; 40 to 49; and 50 and over). A total of 18 prizes will be awarded.

“Prizes consist of either gift baskets or gift certificates donated by local businesses,” Cowden said.

The sponsors of this year’s race include Sodexo, Clintwood Healthy U, Texas Roadhouse, Orion Beauty & Balance, Cyber Cafe West, Cold Stone Creamery, Moe’s, Crepe Heaven, My Boutique, Monroe Muffler, China Wok, Java Joe’s, Friendly’s, Pepe’s Pizza, Mario’s Pizza and Embroidery Screen Printers Network.

“This is the best collection of prizes we have had in the four years running the race,” Cowden said.

In addition to the race itself, there will be other events going on during the Tour DeFleur.

A 100-yard fun run for children will take place behind the East Gym tennis courts, and student performance groups including the Pappy Parker Players, The Vibes, Rhythm Method, Ballroom Dance and the Circus Arts Club are all expected to put on shows while the race is going on. Free snacks will also be given out.

“I’ve run the Tour DeFleur the past couple of years,” said Robert Beavan, a senior program analyst in the department of Information Technology Services at BU. “I really enjoyed the atmosphere surrounding the race, with the many BU groups that participate. The organization has been wonderful, and that makes it a great family venue. It’s also always a treat to run through the BU Nature Preserve during this time of year.”

Before the day of the race, anyone who wishes to participate can sign up in Room 139 of the East Gym membership office for a fee of $10. Those signing up on the day of the event will be charged $15, but a $2 discount will be given to those who have a valid BU student ID card. The first 100 registrants will also receive a free T-shirt.