Breaking Away is more than just a movie. For generations of people, it represents determination, friendship, grit, family, and the belief that ordinary people can accomplish extraordinary things. What many fans may not realize is that the heart and spirit behind the film’s main character came from a real person — Dave Blase.
Dave Blase was one of the original Little 500 cycling legends at Indiana University Bloomington and the real-life inspiration behind the unforgettable story that became Breaking Away. While Hollywood changed his last name for legal reasons, those who know the history understand the important role Dave played in inspiring one of the most beloved sports films of all time.
The screenplay was written by Dave’s Phi Kappa Psi Indiana Beta fraternity brother and fellow Little 500 champion, Steve Tesich, who transformed their Bloomington experiences, cycling culture, and friendships into a story that would ultimately win the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.
But Dave’s impact reaches far beyond the movie screen.
To the Little 500 community, Dave represents the spirit of toughness, humility, teamwork, and perseverance that defines the race itself. To generations of cyclists and Indiana University students, he is part of the history and tradition that made the Little 500 one of the most iconic collegiate sporting events in America.
To many Italian-American families, Breaking Away became something even bigger — a cultural touchstone. The movie celebrated working-class families, immigrant roots, identity, sacrifice, and pride. It captured the humor, emotion, and strength of Italian-American life in a way that deeply connected with audiences across the country. Dave helped inspire a story that made countless people feel seen, understood, and proud of where they came from.
After his cycling years, Dave devoted his life to helping others as a teacher and mentor in Indianapolis, quietly impacting generations of young people with the same humility and character that made him respected as both an athlete and a man.
Today, Dave is facing the toughest climb of his life.
His beloved wife, Yolanda, has been diagnosed with a severe neurological and cognitive disease that now requires full-time memory care and residential treatment. The emotional toll has been heartbreaking, and the financial burden has become overwhelming. As a retired teacher living on a fixed income, Dave simply cannot manage the escalating costs of long-term medical and residential care alone.
Now the same community Dave helped inspire has an opportunity to support him in return.
If Breaking Away ever inspired you…
If the Little 500 means something to you…
If you believe in the importance of teachers, mentors, family, friendship, and community…
If you grew up loving the movie and what it stood for…
Please consider making a donation or sharing this fundraiser.
Every contribution will go directly toward Yolanda’s ongoing medical and memory care expenses and will help provide Dave and his family with support, stability, and hope during an incredibly difficult time.
For decades, Dave’s story inspired millions through one of America’s most beloved films. Today, we have the opportunity to give something back to the man who helped inspire it.
Thank you for your kindness, generosity, prayers, and support.