"Equestrian sports deserve to have more women at the top of the sport!" - Deborah Mayer
The Iron Dames project is making waves in equestrian sport with its latest initiative: the Monaco Comets, an all-female show jumping team set to compete at the highest levels of the sport. The team features a formidable lineup of international talent, including Edwina Tops-Alexander (Australia), Angelica Augustsson (Sweden), Ines Joly (France), Ioli Mytilineou (Greece), Jeanne Sadran (France), and Jörne Sprehe (Germany).
Founded by Deborah Mayer, a Swiss entrepreneur, former professional racing driver, and advocate for women in sports, Iron Dames has rapidly grown into a force for female empowerment. Initially launched in 2018 as a motorsport initiative, Iron Dames broke barriers by becoming the first all-female team to win a race in the FIA World Endurance Championship in 2023. Building on that success, the project has now expanded into equestrianism with the introduction of the Monaco Comets.
“I’m really excited to be part of this team,” says Edwina Tops-Alexander, one of the most decorated female riders in modern show jumping.
For Mayer, expanding Iron Dames into equestrian sport is a natural progression of her mission to drive inclusivity, champion excellence, and inspire future generations of female athletes.
“Equestrian sport holds a special place in my heart. The Cannes Stars’ victory was a profoundly moving moment, showing that, together, we can achieve the extraordinary. With the Monaco Comets, we are writing a new chapter of shared passion and ambition, offering even more women the chance to rise, succeed, and leave a legacy,” Mayer stated.
Who is Deborah Mayer?
A lifelong motorsport enthusiast and accomplished competitor, Deborah Mayer has dedicated her career to creating more opportunities for women in elite sports. She currently serves as President of the FIA Women in Motorsport Commission, where she plays a pivotal role in fostering gender equality within motorsport.
Under her leadership, the Iron Dames project has expanded its reach, proving that female athletes can and should have equal opportunities to excel in both motorsport and equestrian disciplines. Her vision for the future is clear: more women at the top of global competition, breaking barriers, and making history.
With the Monaco Comets now stepping onto the world stage, Iron Dames continues to set a new standard for women in equestrian sport—one that promises to leave a lasting impact for generations to come.
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