EAST LONGMEADOW, Mass. - Runners in East Longmeadow laced up their sneakers Monday to celebrate the Fourth of July as the town held its second annual Freedom Four Miler Road Race.

The race was put together last year by the town and the 4RUN3 running store.

There were cash prizes for the first three males and females to cross the finish line, as well as a prize for best dressed.

The first runner to cross the finish line on Monday was recent American International College graduate Ezra Mutai.

Mutai competed in track and field at the school.

"It feels nice," said Mutai. "You know, I've just been running for college, so I graduated last month. So I'm trying my best to see if I can do some road races. This is my first road race, so I'm planning to achieve more."

Many runners dressed in red, white and blue to celebrate America's birthday.

Some spoke about how special the race was, such as Ludlow resident and runner Michael Goodreau.

"I have a lot of family members that served," said Goodreau. "I was unable to serve, but you know, I always looked up to them and they're great leaders to me, and just what they do for us without asking for thank you."

Sutton resident Tom Fournier said he runs in local races all the time, but Independence Day makes this competition different.

"Just being on the Fourth of July," Fournier said. "Being able to celebrate Independence Day and the freedom that we have and everything else. Those who can't be here, who run for us."

4RUN3 co-owner and race organizer Jill Murphy said the road race doubled in size from their first year to this year.

Dozens of people lined the streets to cheer on runners.​

"One of the best experiences as a runner is to have spectators," said Murphy. "So it kind of all comes together and makes it an amazing experience."

The town's annual Fourth of July parade followed the road race. People participating in and enjoying the day's events said they hope to continue to celebrate in the years ahead.