Iron Dames Equestrian, a pioneering initiative in the world of equestrian sports, is delighted to announce the addition of renowned Dutch rider Sanne Thijssen to its elite women’s team, Cannes Stars powered by Iron Dames.
The project was launched in September, as an extension to Iron Dames racing with the mission to support and promote women in the highly competitive world of show jumping. The arrival of Sanne Thijssen strengthens the team’s ambition, setting its sights on the prestigious Longines Global Champions Tour and Global Champions League.
Aged 25 and hailing from the Netherlands, Sanne has proven herself as a highly talented force to be reckoned with in the equestrian world. Some of her most significant achievements include a win with the Dutch team in the Nations Cup Final in Barcelona in 2021, a second place with the Dutch team at the World Equestrian Games in Herning in 2022 and a win in the LGCT Grand Prix in Valkenswaard in 2023. Her passion for equestrian excellence and dedication to the sport align with the values upheld by the Iron Dames project and strengthen the team’s ambition.
The Cannes Stars powered by Iron Dames are poised to compete in the Longines Global Champions Tour and Global Champions League, as the first and only complete female team amidst a field of strong competitors. The complete team consists of Natalie Dean (USA), Katrin Eckermann (DE), Kim Emmen (NL), Janne Friederike Meyer-Zimmerman (DE), Sophie Hinners (DE) & Sanne Thijssen (NL).
They will also act as ambassadors for the project, inspiring the next generation of female riders who dream of a career in equestrian sport.
SANNE THIJSSEN
“I’m incredibly happy and proud that I now am part of the Iron Dames. I think the project is amazing and it’s great that Deborah Mayer had the idea to start this. I’m feeling very honoured to be part of this team and I’m looking forward to competing with the Iron Dames next season.”
About the Iron Dames
Founded in 2018 by Deborah Mayer, the Iron Dames is a groundbreaking project committed to promoting and supporting women in sports where they compete in equal terms with men. The project has been launched and rapidly developed in motor sport. The Iron Dames, as an all female line-up, achieved historic victories and breakthroughs at the pinnacle of world endurance racing, including winning the 24 Hours of Spa in Gold Cup, taking pole position in WEC or competing at the famous 24 Hours of Le Mans 5 times. In other racing categories, a new generation of pink riders is also on the rise aiming to reach the highest level.
From 2023, the project extends to Equestrian sport with an elite women's show jumping team with the ambition to compete in the most prestigious FEI championships, including Longines Global Champions Tour and Global Championships League.
With a team philosophy of race to inspire, the Iron Dames stands for all passionate women, driven by dreams, willing to go beyond barriers and limits.