“Team boss Deborah Mayer is there for us 24 hours a day.”
Last year, the Cannes Stars, supported by Iron Dames, made history by becoming the first all-female team to win the 2024 Global Champions League championship in their debut year. Show jumper Katrin Eckermann played a key role in this success, winning the GCL in Riesenbeck in 2024 together with her teammate Sophie Hinners.
2024 was an extraordinary year for the Cannes Stars powered by Iron Dames, and they are once again at the forefront this season. Here in Riesenbeck, they are looking to improve their position in the standings. Currently, the “men's teams” from Valkenswaard United and the Shanghai Swans are in the lead. What does the team mean to you?
Katrin Eckermann (KE): Family, power, spirit. Above all, our team spirit is exceptionally strong. We have grown together and everyone knows that they can rely on their teammates. This year, a second team, the Monaco Comets, has joined us. It's amazing how we can perform now.
How has the second team influenced the dynamic?
KE: We are all athletes, we want to win, and we are also opponents in the Global Champions League. Nevertheless, we back each other up and support each other. When you go to a tournament now, the others are there. You can recognize us from afar everywhere thanks to our colorful clothing and jackets. It's just a lot of fun.
There doesn't seem to be any catfights among you...
KE: There really isn't any of that, not for a second. I was a little worried about that at the beginning. I never would have believed that we would support each other so strongly, and that's what really fascinates me about the whole thing. We have exceptional riders in both teams, we rely on each other, and it's a lot of fun.
Why is that?
KE: Mainly because of team manager Deborah Mayer. She is always there for us. Without exception. We notice that in everything she does. Everyone has good and bad phases, but in the end, team spirit is the most important thing. Deborah is unique to us in many ways: she is a great supporter who is there for us 24 hours a day and takes care of us.
How does Deborah Mayer support her riders on site?
KE: She manages the teams, has a full schedule, and we riders communicate with her regularly, for example when it comes to her horses. Young horses are also coming through.
The starts are not limited to the Longines Global Champions Tour. For example, you are also allowed to ride Deborah's horses in Nations Cups or other important tournament series.
KE: Exactly, we also discuss these assignments. First, everyone makes their own plan and then, of course, with the team. Then we see which tournaments are suitable. We all love riding for our own country. Sophie Hinners, for example, has a great selection of horses. She has been very successful this year and was nominated for the European Championships with three horses. That's a dream for all of us. But it's even nicer when we can proudly say that Sophie is on our team and we can support her.
The Iron Dames have made it their goal to support women in sport. Is that so relevant in equestrian sports, where men and women compete on equal terms?
KE: I'm more proud that we have this team and that you can feel that the women are strong. I don't think women are disadvantaged. I think it evens out somewhere. It also depends a lot on your own attitude.
Twice a year, the Iron Dames organize a training camp with all the riders and drivers. That's unique among the GCL teams, isn't it?
KE: Yes, it's very different, but also nice. It provides support and you get to know each other as a team outside of the tournament atmosphere.
Last year, the Cannes Stars team won in Riesenbeck. What does this tournament mean to you?
KE: The tournament has its own unique charm. It's particularly enjoyable and unique, and family and friends are there. That makes it even more fun! A big thank you to everyone involved. It's a dream to ride here.
