The 44th annual Branford Road Race hits the Branford Green this Father’s Day

BRANFORD, Conn. (WTNH) – The weather was perfect as thousands gathered for the 44th annual Branford Road Race Sunday.

The race took place on the Branford Green where more than 2,000 runners competed for Connecticut’s 5-Mile State Championship.

Mario Vazquez, Branford road race full course 2nd place

“It’s father’s day, I’m a father,” said second place winner Mario Vazquez. “So there’s no other way I want to spend it, besides spending it with my kids, but also running.”

Originally called the Shoreline Road Race, the annual Father’s Day tradition in Branford was started by friends Ray Figlewski and Dick Wainman in 1979. Their goal was to bring a national calibur race to their hometown and give the community of Branford an excuse to be celebrated.

“For over 40 years, we’ve been privileged to receive unwavering support extended by the Branford running community, the town, and its residents,” said Ray Figlewski, now the President of the Branford Road Race.

This year’s race has partnered with the David & Rhoda Chase Family Movement Disorders Center, Camp Rising Sun and American Parkinson Disease Association.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.