Over 7,000 take part in annual UPAF Ride for the Arts

MILWAUKEE -- Since 1981, 263,000 have hopped on their bicycles to raise money for Milwaukee's art scene. The annual UPAF Ride for the Arts (sponsored by Miller Lite) was held Sunday, June 3rd at the Summerfest grounds.

A total of five different rides took place Sunday -- starting bright and early at 7:00 a.m. with the 75 mile and 50 mile rides.

The Ride offered five, 12, 25, 50 and 75-mile bike routes.

Organizers say this event is a critical part of the overall campaign to raise money for performing arts in Milwaukee.

UPAF is among the nation's largest united arts funds in terms of dollars raised and number of donors. The organization provides financial support to 36 beneficiary groups.

"We have a very vibrant art scene here. It's a big part about why we love to live in this city and the $10 million we're trying to raise this year comes in big part from the support that we get at this event," UPAF campaign co-chair Carlene Ziegler said.

There were 7,200 riders this year, and organizers estimate they raised around $530,000 for the cause.