By Bella Caggiano

For runners, The Norwood Firecracker is not just the kick off to the infamous 4th of July celebration, it is an athletic tradition that many look forward to all year long. Just before the Town streets are filled with floats, bands, and local organizations, runners take advantage of cheering spectators with the flat and fast out and back course along the parade route. 

For more information or to register, contact race coordinator Jim Henry at 617-610-0084, email wingedfootrunning1@ gmail.com, or visit www.runsignup.com. Entry fee is $30 the day of the race. 

At 5 p.m., just prior to the infamous parade, the start signal goes off for the 3.1-mile run. Prizes are awarded for the top three runners within gender and age categories and t-shirts are given to the first 100 registered participants. Directly following the race, Norwood’s notorious 4th of July Parade begins! What better way to celebrate America’s independence?