DALLAS, Tex.—Thousands of runners, families, and spectators are expected to gather in McKinney on Saturday, March 28, for the inaugural McKinney Historic Half Presented by BMW, an event organizers say will blend the excitement of a major race with the character of one of North Texas’ fastest-growing communities.
The race, organized by the team behind the BMW Dallas Marathon, will guide participants through a 13.1-mile course highlighting several of the city’s landmarks, including the historic Downtown Square, scenic parks, and the revitalized Mill District. The route is designed to reflect the city’s past and its continued growth.
“The McKinney Historic Half is about creating an experience that feels both exciting and welcoming,” says Jason Schuchard, president of the Dallas White Rock Marathon. “We want runners to feel the energy of a major race while also experiencing the personality of the community around them. McKinney has incredible momentum, and this event is designed to bring people together in a way that highlights that spirit.”
Race day will begin in the city center before leading runners through neighborhoods and public spaces that organizers say capture the character of the community. Local running leaders who helped shape the course say participants will experience the city’s evolution mile by mile as they connect with the areas that define it.
Along the course, runners will encounter cheer zones, water stations, and community activations supported by volunteers and local organizations. Many of the volunteers are connected to Scottish Rite for Children, the official charitable beneficiary of the event.
“We’re so appreciative to be the beneficiary of the McKinney Historic Half,” says Jeremy Howell, vice president of North Campus for Scottish Rite for Children. “The support of the community coming out to run and raise funds for our patients is monumental, and we can’t wait to cheer on our friends on race day.”
Additional cheer stations hosted by community partners, including the McKinney Lions Club, Visit McKinney, the Allen Americans, and the Texas Legends, will line the route to support runners and add to the race-day atmosphere.
Both the half-marathon and a companion 5K will finish at TUPPS Brewery, where runners and spectators can gather for a post-race celebration featuring live music from REANIMATE1988, food, and the official race-day beer, “Red Brick Brew,” created in partnership with the brewery.
Organizers say the event will also offer family-friendly activities throughout the morning, including games, attractions, and a kids’ 100-meter dash designed to give younger participants a chance to take part in the festivities.
“The goal is for people to cross the finish line and feel like they’re part of something bigger than just the race,” Schuchard says. “Whether you’re running, volunteering, or cheering from the sidelines, the McKinney Historic Half is meant to be a shared experience that celebrates the community.”
Registration for the McKinney Historic Half Marathon, 5K, and kids’ dash remains open through March 26.
