The prestigious Verona Grand Prix saw an exciting milestone, with German Sophie Hinners becoming the first female rider to etch her name into its history. The 26-year-old won the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ presented by KASK with a faultless performance aboard her partner, Iron Dames My Prins, in 37.91 seconds. Her victory secured her place in the record books of equestrian sports and highlighted the growing achievements of female riders in international show jumping.
Her achievement comes after two previous German riders, Meredith Michaels Beerbaum in 2010 and Kendra Claricia Brinkop in 2021, came close to winning but fell short of the top spot on the podium. In her post-event interview, an enthusiastic Hinners praised My Prins (in English, “my prince”): “I’m overjoyed. My Prins was amazing today! I only began competing with him in mid-July, and having our first win here after our first jump-off is incredible. It was challenging, but his ability made everything appear so simple.”
The competition included an exciting jump-off, with top international riders giving their all. Following a good start by Great Britain’s Ben Maher, Hinners outperformed him in a decisive round that demonstrated her control and My Prins’ outstanding mobility. Maher, a past Verona GP champion, finished second in 38.23 seconds on Point Break, despite a small slip in his final turn that cost him valuable time. Marcus Ehning from Germany closed out the podium in third place on Coolio 42, clocking 38.36 seconds.
Sophie Hinners and the Iron Dames initiative
Hinners is also a member of the “Iron Dames” initiative, which was launched by Swiss entrepreneur Deborah Mayer to encourage women in equestrian and motorsports. With over 20 members, the Iron Dames project has produced a major effect on elevating female athletes across disciplines, providing them with the resources and motivation they require to thrive at the highest levels.
Photo Credits: Argenziano and Grasso
