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For Immediate Release
Saturday, March 28, 2026

A Strong First Stride: McKinney Historic Half Delivers in Debut

McKinney Historic Half Debuts as a Celebration of Community, Momentum and Miles

McKinney, TX (March 28, 2026) – In its inaugural year, the McKinney Historic Half Presented by BMW brought together thousands of runners, families and spectators from across North Texas, transforming race day into a vibrant community-wide celebration. From the starting line to the final stretch, the experience delivered on its promise, showcasing McKinney's unique identity while providing the polished, high-quality race atmosphere runners expect from the team behind the BMW Dallas Marathon.

"The McKinney Historic Half was about creating an experience that felt both exciting and welcoming," said Jason Schuchard, President of the Dallas White Rock Marathon. "Congratulations to everyone who played a role in bringing this event to life, from the runners and volunteers to the city of McKinney itself. To see everything come together in such a meaningful way was incredibly rewarding."

At the heart of the event is the partnership with Scottish Rite for Children, the official charitable beneficiary of the race, reinforcing a shared commitment to community impact. That spirit was powerfully reflected in 16-year-old Zion from Frisco, who served as Junior Race Director.

Race day began in the heart of the city, guiding participants along a thoughtfully designed course that brought McKinney's story to life. Runners passed landmarks including the historic Downtown Square, scenic parks and the revitalized Mill District, experiencing a route that blended timeless character with the city's continued growth and momentum.

"McKinney was proud to partner with the BMW Dallas Marathon organization to host the McKinney Historic Half and welcome runners from across North Texas to our city," said McKinney Mayor Bill Cox. "Events like this highlight the character of our historic downtown, our beautiful parks and the strong sense of community that makes McKinney such a special place. We appreciate everyone from the organizers to the volunteers, and all the athletes who helped make this year's race a success and look forward to seeing this event continue to grow."

The finish line at TUPPS Brewery served as a central celebration hub, where participants and spectators gathered to mark the day's accomplishments and connect with one another, capping off an event that was as much about community as it was about competition.

With a successful debut, the McKinney Historic Half has established a strong foundation for the future, positioning itself as a standout addition to the North Texas running calendar and a race that will continue to grow alongside the community it celebrates.

Award Winners

Texas locals and out-of-state visitors take top honors at the 2026 Inaugural McKinney Historic Half Presented by BMW.

Half Marathon

Steven Fahy, 30, of Dallas, was the men's first place finisher with a time of 1:05. Fahy also came in first place during the full marathon at the 2025 Dallas Marathon. "It was a beautiful course from start to finish," he stated. "Running by the lakes, through the neighborhoods and into downtown was incredible. I know this is an event that will continue to grow and I will be back next year. Racing local is a big priority for me, and I'm proud to represent the area and be part of events like this."

Ashley Montgomery, 30, of New York City, was the women's first place finisher with a time of 1:24. "As a former college runner, I really enjoyed the course—it was hilly, but the weather was awesome," she added. "It was challenging, but fun, and I'm planning to come back next year."

5K

Ali Toomes, 32, of McKinney, TX, placed first for men in the 5K. Sarah Parnell, 24, of Auburn, AL, took first place among the women running the 5K.

Kids' Races

250 kids aged two to five took part in the Kid's 100M Dash.

For full race results, please visit HERE. All times are unofficial until results are verified by race officials.

About the McKinney Historic Half

The McKinney Historic Half Presented by BMW is a premier spring running event launching March 28, 2026, in McKinney, Texas. Organized by the team behind the BMW Dallas Marathon, the race features a half marathon, 5K and kids' dash welcoming participants of all ages and abilities. The event showcases McKinney's historic downtown, vibrant park system and family-friendly neighborhoods while offering a polished, professional race experience. Proceeds benefit Scottish Rite for Children, reinforcing the event's mission to promote health, fitness and community impact. For more information, visit www.mckinneyhalf.com.

About The Dallas White Rock Marathon

The Dallas White Rock Marathon (DWRM) is a nonprofit organization with a focus on promoting health and physical fitness through running events and related activities. The organization is composed of 15 volunteer board members and a full-time staff with various backgrounds and running experiences that help carry out the mission of the DWRM as well as support the growth and impact of the DWRM portfolio of events in the Dallas-Fort Worth community. Dating back to 1971, the organization hosts year-round events culminating with Dallas' largest and Texas' longest running marathon: the BMW Dallas Marathon. Now in its 55th running, the marquee event, with 12 running and walking events for all ages, will attract runners from across the globe and hundreds of thousands of spectators to Dallas' largest single-day sporting event. The BMW Dallas Marathon course highlights iconic Dallas landmarks and is recognized as the official marathon of the City of Dallas. Since naming a primary beneficiary in 1997, DWRM has donated nearly $5 million to Scottish Rite for Children. For more information, visit www.dallasmarathon.com.

About Scottish Rite for Children

Scottish Rite for Children has been dedicated to giving children back their childhood for more than a century. The institution is a world-renowned leader in the treatment of pediatric orthopedic conditions, such as scoliosis, clubfoot, hand differences, hip disorders, limb lengthening and reconstruction, sports injuries and fractures, as well as certain related arthritic and neurological disorders and learning disorders, such as dyslexia. The organization conducts innovative research and provides high-level education opportunities for medical professionals around the world. Scottish Rite operates two campuses, including a hospital in Dallas, Texas, and an ambulatory surgery center in Frisco, Texas, and is known for being a bright, child-friendly place that does not look or feel like a health care institution. Patients receive treatment regardless of their family's ability to pay. For more information about services available at the Dallas or Frisco campuses, volunteering or donating, visit scottishriteforchildren.org.

 

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