After 55 years of thrilling finishes, international media attention, and over 1.2 million dollars raised for scholarships, Freewheels 55 - The Fifty-Five Year History of the Little 500, documents the history of the “The World’s Greatest College Weekend.”

This film brings together many of the dramatic moments the Little 500 has produced over the past 55 years, as well as focusing on the character of people which the race produces, and the significant spirit and tradition that has placed the Little 500 at the heart of Indiana University.

Freewheels 55 is a 3 hour and 22 minute DVD featuring 70 race finishes, 80 personal interviews, and behind the scenes footage of the 1979 Academy Award winning film Breaking Away. A vast array of Interviews range from winners of the first race, to the courageous women who attempted to qualify in the men's race and subsequently spearheaded the effort to form a race of their own, to the poignant last filmed interview of Howdy Wilcox, creator of the race.

The film diifers from the original Free Wheels as it covers the last five years, does not contain the Dodd's and Chi-O sections, and is only available on DVD.

Freewheels 55 – The Fifty-Five Year History of the Little 500, is produced, directed and distributed by IU alumnus and Little 500 Champion Kendall Harnett (’89). Harnett has worked on many national commercial spots, including serial television work with Fox and the Discovery Channel, and has also shot several feature films. He is currently making documentaries and teaching film in Maine.

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Created for the fiftieth anniversary of the race, this beautiful four color poster captures the unique art work from the first fifty programs used for the race. Printed on high quality poster paper, this makes the perfect gift or souvenir for yourself or the rider in your family.

Dimensions: 24" x 36"

 

The original film, released in 2002 covers the creation of the Little 500 and the first fifty years of races.

It is the story of the real people who inspired the film Breaking Away, the race that made the headlines of the New York Times, and the event that earned the title "World's Greatest College Weekend." The film examines the ups and downs of the last fifty years by focusing on the people who were shaped by this great event.

Interwooven throughout the history of the event, are the stories of two contemporary teams as they train throughout the year and learn difficult lessons that determine a champion. An amazing chronicle of personal growth and dedication, Free Wheels shows why the Little 500 is truely the greatest bike race in America