The rains stopped just long enough Saturday for the inaugural Ride to Remember in honor of Michelle Koss.
The event drew 80 bicyclists—an excellent turnout considering the conditions—to Peaceful Valley Park, including Michelle’s husband, Tom and members of her family, including sons Brady and Aaron, who led the start.
Michelle Nuskiewicz, who organized the event in memory of her friends, called the turnout overwhelming, and thanked all who attended. Other speakers included Dan Bastle, who led a prayer.
Koss, 53, was an enthusiastic cyclist, skier and all-around athlete who participated in and helped organized many area events, including the Monday night women’s bike ride, Splash-N-Dash aquathon, and Wolfman Triathlon. She was struck and killed by a motorist while bicycling near her Bryant home in March.
Six, 12 and 21-mile rides were offered, with all levels of cyclists participating, including several who were dusting off their wheels for the first time in decades.
The Wisconsin Biking Federation had a booth focusing on bike safety, which was also stressed by the Antigo Bike and Ski Club, who sold out of the bike safety taillights provided in part through a Community Health Foundation grant.
The Antigo Police Department sponsored a bike giveaway and Aspirus Langlade Hospital provided food and water to all participants.
Brady, left, and Aaron Koss lead the Ride to Remember in
honor of their mother, Michelle, at the start of the
event Saturday leaving from Peaceful Valley Park.
At center is the ride organizer, Michelle Nuskiewicz.
Just behind Aaron is Tom Koss, Michelle’s husband.