Hundreds of cyclists gathered in downtown McKinney on Saturday for the sixth annual Soul Patrol Juneteenth Bicycle Rally. The event, hosted by the Soul Patrol Foundation, combined a celebration of Juneteenth with a focus on physical fitness and community engagement. McKinney is located approximately 12 miles east of Frisco.
The rally transformed the area surrounding McKinney City Hall into a daylong festival. Attendees experienced music, food from local vendors, and family-oriented activities. DJ TDK provided musical entertainment for the crowd. Participants could select from four supported cycling routes, with distances of 12, 25, 44, or 66 miles through McKinney and nearby Collin County communities. Organizers noted that while changing weather conditions presented early challenges, the event concluded safely as the weather improved and riders finished their courses.
The foundation credited the success of the rally to sponsors, volunteers, and public safety agencies. Major sponsors included Toyota, Medical City Healthcare, Cadence Cyclery, Carrier, North Star Diagnostic Imaging, Credit Union of Texas, Majic 94.5 FM, Prosperity Bank, and H-E-B, along with various local businesses and community groups.
The Soul Patrol Foundation stated that the rally aims to be inclusive, welcoming families, recreational cyclists, competitive riders, and first-time participants to encourage healthy lifestyles and strengthen community ties. Since its founding, the nonprofit has focused on expanding cycling access, supporting education, and providing community service. The organization has awarded over $75,000 in scholarships to graduating high school seniors, donated bicycles to youth in underserved communities, and promoted health programs across North Texas.
Hillis Davis, co-founder of the Soul Patrol Foundation, said the organization learns something new each year to improve the event. Davis expressed gratitude to the cyclists, volunteers, sponsors, public safety agencies, and community partners who contributed to the rally's success. Planning for the seventh annual rally is already underway, with hopes to welcome more riders in 2027.
