Spectators awaited family and friends at the finish line at Hangar 104, July 4, during the annual Runway Run 5k. Cheers showered the first runner who sprinted through the finish line, made up of a narrow array of orange cones. The cheers grew louder as camera flashes warmly received small groups of runners closing in on the finish.

These runners began their Fourth of July holiday early, heading for the flightline in patriotic gear and sneakers. As they awaited the start of the event, the commentator reminded participants to stretch out and hydrate. He jokingly added, “The corpsman said even Paul Revere stretched when the British were coming,” attempting to remind runners of the day’s significance with a little humor.

“It’s all about America today,” said Carlos Martinez, a runner in the race. “I enjoy this event because you always see people you know. I’m here to have fun with some great people.”

Martinez ran the race representing America in a sequence flag vest and top hat, but he wasn’t the only runner in red, white, and blue attire. Some donned the colors with tutus and headbands, while some stayed true to simple flag shirts.

Service members, their families and the general public were welcome to run the race. Even young children ran alongside their parents. A few dogs even joined in the race by running with their owners. People flocked all around the hanger awaiting the race’s start.

“This is my third year running the 5k,” said Tom Hobson, a race participant. “I plan on running again next year.”

Each racer wore a time tracker on their ankle during the run. At the finish line, racers stepped on a sensor beneath a red rug that calculated their time using the tracker.

The top three men and women were recognized once all the racers finished. The top three men were Tyler Hubbard in first place, Andrew Taylor in second place, and Makai Clemons in third place. The top three women were Chrishna Wong in first place, Malia Clemons in second place, and Heidi Goedecke in third place.

The Runway Run 5k was part of the 101 Days of Summer program, which promotes alternative activities to at-risk behavior such as alcohol abuse. From now through August, Marine Corps Base Hawaii service members are encouraged to participate in a variety of events, such as the upcoming Camp H.M. Smith Grueler 5k race. For more information about the 101 Days of Summer Program, visit http://www.mccshawaii.com.