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Soul Patrol Foundation Hosts 6th Juneteenth Bike Rally in McKinney

Hundreds of cyclists participated in the Soul Patrol Foundation's sixth annual Juneteenth Bicycle Rally in downtown McKinney, featuring multiple route options and community activities.

Gwen Mercer

July 2, 20262 min read

Juneteenth Celebration - illustration, Jake Team LLC
Juneteenth Celebration - illustration, Jake Team LLC

Hundreds of cyclists from across North Texas gathered in downtown McKinney on Saturday for the sixth annual Soul Patrol Juneteenth Bicycle Rally. The event, held on June 20, 2026, combined a celebration of Juneteenth with a focus on physical fitness and community engagement. McKinney is located approximately 7 miles west of Princeton.

The Soul Patrol Foundation organized the rally to welcome participants of all ages and skill levels. The area surrounding McKinney City Hall was transformed into a venue for cycling, music, food, and family-oriented activities. Attendees could select from four supported routes with distances of 12, 25, 44, or 66 miles through McKinney and surrounding Collin County communities.

Although early morning weather conditions presented challenges, organizers reported that the event concluded safely as the weather improved and riders finished their courses. The day also featured entertainment from DJ TDK, along with refreshments and food vendors, creating a festival atmosphere that has become a regular feature of the annual gathering.

Organizers attributed the success of the rally to the support of 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, alongside numerous local businesses and community organizations.

The Soul Patrol Foundation stated that the rally aims to be inclusive, bringing together 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 access to cycling while supporting education and community service initiatives. The foundation has awarded more than $75,000 in scholarships to graduating high school seniors, donated bicycles to youth in underserved communities, and promoted health and wellness programs throughout North Texas.

Hillis Davis, co-founder of the Soul Patrol Foundation, noted that each year provides new insights 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 event is already underway, with organizers looking forward to welcoming more riders in 2027.

Foundation President Dr. James Guess emphasized that the organization's work extends beyond cycling events. He highlighted the group's motto, "One Ride. One Bike. One Scholarship. Changing Lives," underscoring the broader mission of creating healthier communities through service and recreation. The Soul Patrol Foundation continues to offer cycling events, educational programs, volunteer opportunities, and community outreach initiatives throughout the year.

Source: North Dallas Gazette.

Sources

https://northdallasgazette.com/2026/07/01/soul-patrol-foundations-6th-annual-juneteenth-bicycle-rally-draws-hundreds-to-mckinney/

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Gwen Mercer

Gwen Mercer writes about community life, schools, public safety, and local events in Princeton.

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