Matt Levatich, president and chief operating officer of Harley-Davidson Motor Company will serve as the Grand Marshal for the 2012 UPAF Ride for the Arts on Sunday, June 3.
Levatich will ride a Harley to lead 7,000 bicyclists as they embark on one of the nation’s largest one-day recreational bike rides, with all proceeds benefiting the United Performing Arts Fund
“We are pleased to be active participants with UPAF in supporting the performing arts, which add so much to the quality of life in our area,” said Levatich. “Not only do the arts bring us together as a community and open our minds to different perspectives, they free our creative spirit and inspire innovation.”
This year the Ride will start and finish at the Summerfest grounds’ South Gate at the intersection of Polk Street and Harbor Drive and will again offer 5, 12, 25, 50 and 75-mile bike routes for riders of all ages and abilities. Three routes will cross the Daniel Hoan Memorial Bridge.
“Levatich’s participation as the Grand Marshal exemplifies Harley-Davidson Motor Company’s support of the performing arts in Southeastern Wisconsin and comes in addition to its donation of a 2012 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two motorcycle for use as an incentive in the 2012 UPAF Campaign,” said Deanna Tillisch, UPAF president and CEO.
After the Ride, participants can enjoy the Finish Line Party at the Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard Stage on the Summerfest grounds which will feature live entertainment, including performances by local Milwaukee musicians and roaming performers from UPAF Member Group Milwaukee Public Theatre. This year’s musical acts include the LoveMonkeys, the Briggs Bluesbusters and Substitute. The adult rider registration fee is $45, the youth fee is $35 and the family price is $105. Rider registration fees increase the day of the event. More information on registration pricing is available at www.upafride.org.
