Debora DeNapoli set out to create a mountain bike musical, but her project evolved into something far more profound. The resulting film chronicles her return to biking following a traumatic brain injury, defying medical advice, and rediscovering the transformative power of two wheels.
Seven years ago, DeNapoli’s life took an unexpected turn when a severe car accident left her with multiple injuries, including brain bruising, whiplash, and chronic vertigo. The incident robbed her of normalcy and, most devastatingly, her beloved sport of mountain biking.
Prior to the accident, DeNapoli was deeply entrenched in the cycling community. She had recently completed a documentary showcasing her epic ride across nine Canadian Rockies summits to raise awareness for ovarian cancer, a cause close to her heart. Her ambitious plans, including a role with the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour, were abruptly halted.
For six years, DeNapoli heeded her doctors’ warnings to avoid cycling. However, an irresistible urge to return to the trails eventually overcame her fears. Cautiously, she began riding again, discovering that the benefits were almost immediate.
This pivotal moment coincided with an opportunity presented by her friend and filmmaker Darcy Turenne. Together with Shimano, they embarked on a project to document DeNapoli’s inspiring comeback story. During a pitch meeting, DeNapoli’s enthusiasm shone through as she spontaneously burst into song, proposing a “little opera” for the film. While the musical element didn’t make the final cut, her infectious spirit became the heart of the documentary.
The film about Debora captures the essence of DeNapoli’s journey, showcasing how she found healing and purpose through mountain biking. The film illustrates her transition from competitive endurance rider to someone who embraces the pure joy of the sport. DeNapoli’s new approach focuses on fun, community, and using cycling as a tool to manage her ongoing symptoms and mental health challenges.
Today, DeNapoli’s boundless energy, laughter, and passion for mountain biking continue to inspire those around her. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the sport’s ability to heal, unite, and bring unadulterated joy to riders of all abilities.
Get your tickets to the Gutsy Girls Adventure Film Tour HERE
UPDATE: (because we’ve been asked so many times 🙂 The song in the film is “GET UP GET OUT” by Born Dirty Featuring JSTLBBY
You can watch the equally awesome music video HERE
