The Semper Five Run is returning to the Seaside Heights Boardwalk for the eighth time on Saturday.

The run is one of the area’s largest events benefiting marines and sailors.

Since its inception, it has raised over $400,000 for the Marine Raider Foundation.

The first Semper Five took place in 2014.

“I was expecting a small turnout. We ended up having over a thousand and never looked back,” said Frank Costello, the race’s director.

In 2016, tragedy almost struck when convicted terrorist Ahmad Rahimi planted a bomb along the race’s route. Luckily, a delayed start prevented runners from being near the explosion, and no one was hurt.

Rahimi was sentenced to life for the crime and other bombings in New York City. The incident resulted in the race being canceled. However, the following year saw double the number of runners join to show solidarity.

Anyone interested in participating can sign up in front of the Beachcomber until 8:30 p.m. Wednesday. The race begins at 9 a.m. Saturday.