Otto Wahl was one of the best non-Scandinavians at St. Moritz over 50 km, and between 1927-33, was one of the best Middle European cross-country skiers. He also competed in three World Championships (1929-1931) with the 8th place in the 50 km in 1931 being his best result, again as the leading non-Scandinavian. In addition, he was an excellent cross-country skier and won the cross-country run “Rund um den Beerberg” four times (1926, 1928, 1931 and 1933). He died just days before his 31st birthday from a brain disease.
Germany