The race winning all-female driver project has launched the ‘Supported By Iron Dames’ initiative with rising athletes Emma Chalvin, Laura van den Hengel and Ava Lawrence.
Iron Dames was founded by former driver and entrepreneur Deborah Mayer in 2018 and has since promoted female driver talent within motorsport and the equestrian sport.
‘Supported by Iron Dames’ sets about providing support to rallying star Chalvi, GT racing sensation van den Hengel and karting prodigy Lawrence into the next stages of their careers.
There are current 16 Iron Dames across various disciplines such as karting, GT racing, single-seaters and rallying so the initiative will work alongside the main programme.
Van den Hengel will take on her third GT racing season with the 2025 European GT Open Cup in a Porsche.
“I am truly honoured to be involved with the ‘Supported by Iron Dames’ project,” said the 33-year-old.
“From the very first day I stepped into the world of car racing, it was always my dream to be part of something as inspiring as this.
“With only one full season under my belt, being supported by Iron Dames already is nothing short of remarkable.
“This opportunity proves that with dedication, hard work, and belief in yourself, so much is achievable.
“I am more determined than ever to show what I can achieve, both on and off the track, and to inspire others to chase their own dreams.
“Iron Dames is about more than just racing – it’s about empowering women to reach their potential and I’m excited to be walking this path with such an incredible team, still in the early stages of my career.”
Chalvin, the 2022 French Women’s Rallycross Champion, added: “Known the world over, for me, the Iron Dames family represents the very symbol of excellence in women’s motorsport, so I’m very proud to be among the first drivers to join the ‘Supported by Iron Dames’ programme, following in the footsteps of Sarah Rumeau and Julie Amblard.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and stepping into the Iron Dames family is a big moment in my career.
“I am deeply grateful to Deborah Mayer for her trust, and I can’t wait for the season to start.”
Lawrence, the youngest of the trio at 10-years-old, concluded: “I’m so excited to be joining the Iron Dames.
“It’s really cool to be part of a team that supports girls in racing.
“I love karting, and I can’t wait to learn, race, and do my best on track.
“This is a big opportunity, and I’m ready to have fun and make the team proud.”
