A documentary on the 1980s women’s Tour de France that includes some notable Canadian and American pioneers of women’s cycling
Breakaway Femmes, is a film that tells the story of the first women’s Tour. It is a story that is deeply personal to me and to so many women who have devoted their lives to cycling, to professional sport, to business and to breaking through the glass ceiling in any male dominated environment.
I raced professionally for 16 years, culminating in an Olympic Silver Medal at the 2004 Athens Games. But before I ever lined up at the start of a major race, there was a generation of women who fought for the right to be there. They rode through resistance, through skepticism, and fought against the belief that women’s cycling could never stand on equal footing with the men’s sport. They persevered when the odds were stacked against them. Many went on to mentor and coach the next generations.
The first women to compete in the Tour de France Femmes were more than just athletes—they were trailblazers. They didn’t just race; they redefined what was possible. Their determination and grit paved the way for generations of women racers who followed. Thanks to their efforts, the Tour de France Femmes has returned, stronger than ever, inspiring a new wave of riders to dream bigger and push harder.
Breakaway Femmes is a tribute to them—the pioneers, the fighters, the women who refused to be left out of history. Join us for the Toronto screening April 7 and watch their journey unfold on screen, as every pedal stroke they took was not just for themselves, but for the generations that would follow.
-Dede Barry
Watch the Trailer
Presented by Demand Film, Breakaway Femmes will screen in cinemas across Canada for one night only on Monday, April 7.
Join Us for the Toronto Screening!
We’re thrilled that Toronto will host a screening at Cineplex Yonge-Dundas, and this event will feature a special introduction by former professional cyclist and 2004 Olympic Silver medallist, Dede Barry.
🔗 Reserve your tickets now: Toronto Screening – Cineplex Yonge-Dundas
If you’re outside Toronto, check the full list of screenings across Canada and secure your tickets here:
🔗 ca.demand.film/breakaway-femmes
Let’s come together to celebrate this incredible moment in cycling history. Reserve your tickets, spread the word, and join us for an inspiring night at the movies!
We’ll see you there!
