If you’re looking to participate in a great ride supporting an even better cause, consider joining City House’s Collin Classic on June 13th. All profits of the ride and bike raffle go to children in need in Northern Texas. We got in touch with Rob Scichili, who’s leading the event. Check out the interview below for all the details.
The Collin Classic Bike Rally has something for everyone – from the serious cyclist to the weekend rider. We even have a Family Fun Route! With complimentary steak burgers from Texas Land & Cattle at the finish line and Crazy Water to rehydrate along the ride, and so much more. Starbucks will get you fired up with some coffee prior to the start. Chose a route from 21 to 63 miles.
Why join your ride?
All of us at the Collin Classic pride ourselves with running a top-notch ride, with convenient parking and a very good route, no matter what distance you choose. Plus all of the proceeds benefit local homeless and abused children. Come ride with us before the real heat of the summer comes along!
How long has your ride been around?
This is the 24th year for the Collin Classic. We are proud that is has become a staple on the schedule and one of the primary rides in North Texas every June.
What was the motivation behind starting the ride and who benefits from it?
The ride was started in 1991 by Collin County riders who wanted to start up a ride to call their own. The event is now owned and run by the people at City House, with 100 percent of the proceeds going to help at-risk kids in North Texas due to abuse, neglect or homelessness. The focus will always be on the ride and the cause is one that everyone supports.
How have they been able to utilize funds in the past?
City House puts the funds to good use toward the operation of its emergency youth shelter in Plano, as well as it Transitional Living Program for homeless youth.
Logistically can you give us an idea of how many volunteers, finances and planning it takes to put on this event?
There are over 300 volunteers who make the Collin Classic go – from parking attendants to SAG drivers to break point volunteers. City House has invested into the ride each year, dropping supply expenses and operating costs as a result. We work on the event year-round but we really kick it in from the first of the year through the ride in early June.
What is the most rewarding experience of hosting this event?
The reward is two-fold. We are proud to put on a ride that cyclists enjoy and come back for, keeping up the tradition that was born 24 years ago. But we are also so happy that the Collin Classic serves as a major fundraiser to help local homeless youth through City House. Everyone wins and we try and build upon it every year.
What is the average number of participants?
We have anywhere from 2,200-2,500 riders at the Collin Classic.
What can folks do to support you and your mission?
The best way people can make an impact, cyclists or otherwise, is participate in the event as a rider or volunteer, and purchasing a raffle ticket (or a five-pack) for the GIANT Bike Giveaway is huge for us. Plus you could walk away with a $10,000 bike!
Do you ride, and if so, what kind of bicycle do you have?
I do ride, having recently gotten into the sport. I have a GIANT AnyRoad bike and I love it. They make such good products and the boys at Plano Cycling & Fitness took care of me. I highly recommend them.
Anything else you’d like to tell folks about this ride?
Again, you can help us immensely buy buying raffle tickets for the GIANT bike. They are only $25 per (5 for $100) and you need not be present to win. Take your pick from a mens GIANT or a ladies LIV bike!