Rain or shine, Student Assembly will be hosting their third annual 5K Run in The Sun on June 20 at 9 a.m., starting and ending at Long Lots Elementary School.

The proceeds raised from this event will be donated to Staples Tuition Grants, which is a program designed to raise funds to help contribute to students at Staples struggling with expensive costs of college.

The fee for participating is $15 if you sign up in advance, and $20 if you register on the day of the race. The run is open to all ages, and there are prizes for winners of all age groups. T-shirts with the 5K Run in the Sun logo on it will be given to everyone that signs up the day of the race.

Student Assembly member, Tali Laifer ’11 says it’s a great event worth participating in.

“Anyone can run three miles on any given day. Doing it for a cause just makes it that much better. Not only that, but it’s just a great way to start off the summer,” Laifer said.

Student Assembly member Courtney Garzone ’11 agrees, and also feels the money that will be raised is the most important part.

“It’s a great local cause, because you know exactly who will be receiving it, and that they deserve it. It’s more personally rewarding because you know the people it goes to.”

Faculty advisor of Student Assembly, math teacher Gertrude Denton, says that the members really love the idea of supporting other Staples students.

“Every year, we vote for a cause to donate the proceeds of the 5K Run in The Sun to. This will be our third year where the money will be going to Staples Tuition Grants,” Denton said. “Student Assembly loves being able to support Staples kids. There are many worthy charities, but for them, supporting fellow students to afford an education is a great combination of causes.”

Among the sponsors so far, Steaz Beverages, Teen Awareness Group (TAG), the Parent Teacher Association (PTA), and 10-12 other local businesses will be contributing different prizes for the winners.

As well as winners of all different age groups, there will be an overall male and female winner. Some prizes include a fitness edge membership, car wash certificates, a Dooney Burke handbag, and gift baskets.

“There are about 200 to 250 participants every year. Last year we raised about $5,000 for Staples Tuition Grants,” Denton said.

The race goes on a route down Long Lots Roads, turns on to Bulkley Ave. North, onto Old Road, then down Maple Ave. North, back down Long Lots Road, and ending at Hyde Lane.

Registration is available at http://www.active.com/page/Event_Details.htm?event_id=1865466