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MARINETTE, WI -- Gloomy weather didn't stand in the way of bikers peddling for a cure.

The 29th annual Menominee River Century Bike Ride to benefit oncology at Bay Area Medical Center kicked off Sunday morning at Marinette High School.

More than 1,300 bikers poured in from around the country to advance cancer research while enjoying a bay side bike ride.  For a $25 registration fee, cyclists chose a course to suit their skill level.

"Anybody who wants to hop on a bike can go," said organizer Rachel Adams.  "It's really for anybody that actually likes riding.  We have four different routes, so it really can be your choice as to which one you want to take.  We have a century ride that's 120 kilometers, and it goes all the way up north and crosses into Michigan."

Trails were dotted with 10 rest stops providing food and live entertainment.  The Peshtigo rest stop was the largest stop along the entire ride.  Since it was the only rest stop that intersected all four bike routes, it got particularly crowded.

"It's a whole bunch of people having fun for a good cause and getting some exercise," said biker Tom Baht of Sobieski, Wisconsin.

"The food's good and it's a beautiful ride," said biker Connie Hass of Marinette.  "We have a lot of people here, so it's very motivating."

With donations and early registrations, Bay Area Medical Center has already raised more than $3,000 for their oncology fund, and they hope to double that.