30th Anniversary: Riding the Open Roads of Hunt County
Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
Location: Landon Winery, 2508 Lee St, Greenville, TX 75401
Event Information
The Greenville Rotary Club invites you to a monumental celebration: the 30th Anniversary of the Cotton Patch Challenge. Established in 1996 by a local group of cycling enthusiasts, this ride has grown into a premier North Texas tradition that fuels local charities and children’s programs across Hunt County. As contractors for this event, we are proud to highlight that when you ride, you are directly supporting the Rotary’s mission of community service.
This isn’t just a “city slicker” ride. The Cotton Patch Challenge is famous for its authentic Texas countryside experience. You will encounter open roads, scenic vistas, and the honest challenge of local chip seal. The 30th-anniversary edition promises even more excitement, featuring a streamlined check-in process and a downtown atmosphere packed with “local freebies” and small-town hospitality.
Ride Distances & Routes
The 2026 event offers an extensive range of distances for road cyclists and gravel grinders alike:
- Road Rally Distances: 6, 12, 21, 35, 46, 61, 76, and 100 miles.
- Note: The 61, 76, and 100-mile routes feature the spectacular 2-mile bridge crossing over Lake Tawakoni.
- Gravel Grinder Distances: 31, 42, and 57 miles.
- These routes dive into the Sabine River bottom south of Greenville, featuring a mix of gravel, hard surfaces, and a sandy section for a true off-road adventure.
Support and Logistics
The Cotton Patch Challenge is a leisure ride focused on enjoyment rather than timing:
- Check-In: Starts at 6:00 AM at Landon Winery using a fast QR code system via BikeReg.
- Rest Stops: Fully stocked stops are located along all routes. Road stops feature traditional refreshments, while gravel stops include Skratch Labs electrolytes and GU Energy items.
- SAG Support: SAG trucks and rest stops are equipped with air pumps for those who run out of CO2. Support officially closes at 2:00 PM (1:00 PM for gravel).
- Parking: Free parking is available throughout Downtown Greenville near the start/finish line.
Lee Street Jamboree
The fun doesn’t end at the finish line. Stay for the Lee Street Jamboree, a free family-friendly street party in Downtown Greenville. This event features live music, vendors, and food trucks under the stars. It is the perfect way to celebrate your 30th-anniversary ride with friends and neighbors.
Event Schedule
- 6:00 AM: Check-in and day-of registration opens at Landon Winery.
- 7:30 AM: Official Start (2-minute staggered starts by distance).
- 8:00 AM: Final call for all departures (no late starts permitted).
- 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM: Post-ride gathering and downtown exploration.
- Saturday Evening: Lee Street Jamboree live music and festivities.
Registration and Charity
All profits from the ride are administered by the Rotary Club of Greenville to help local charities.
- Options: Participants can pre-purchase Tech Shirts and bibs or add a direct donation during sign-up.
Registration Link: https://www.bikereg.com/cotton-patch-challenge
Website
For maps of the Lake Tawakoni crossing and lists of partner hotels with special rider rates, visit:
Website: https://cottonpatchchallenge.com/
Contact Information
For technical questions or sponsorship details, please contact:
Contact: Katy Ridge
Phone: 903-456-3514
Email: [email protected]
