Otto Grunski

September 10, 1973 NM Northwestern

Forty years ago the first Otto Grunski Bicycle Races were held.  As evidenced from these articles, the amateur innocence evident at this first event was just a precursor to the tide of spandex and helmet wearing cyclists who would soon infiltrate on a permanent level. Nevertheless, over the years, the races evolved into a complete festival, replete with boats, bikes, running, food and music, in various formats.   

So who was Otto Grunski? Legend has it that he was a Polish inventor attributed to be the creator of the "Boneshaker," a precursor to the modern bicycle.  Myth or man, Menasha residents and its invited guests have nevertheless gotten 40 years worth of mirth and merriment from his memory.  .