CAMBRIDGE — IRONClub Maryland – the advocacy organization founded in 2014 by Gerry Boyle and Amanda Fenstermaker to support IRONMAN endurance events in Dorchester County – announced the appointment of six new board members. They are: Dion Bank, Susan Banks, John Burtman, Jason Chance, Natalie Chabot and Emma Diaz.

“We are excited to welcome this talented team of triathlon professionals, volunteers and advocates to IRONClub,” said Ms. Fenstermaker. “Each has been instrumental in making Dorchester one of the nation’s most highly respected and welcoming hosts for these prestigious races and we look forward to growing our base of loyal supporters with their leadership.”

The nonprofit booster organization supports IRONMAN endurance events, promotes community and business involvement, and coordinates fundraising for the IRONMAN Maryland licensing fee. The $100,000 annual fee generates millions of dollars in economic impact for the region and results in direct spending at county retailers, restaurants, and service providers. The events have also produced significant community investments by the IRONMAN Foundation which has awarded numerous grants to Dorchester organizations including Dorchester County Public Schools and the Dorchester County Family YMCA.

The six new members join Ms. Fenstermaker and the founding board: Bill Christopher, Tom Hutchinson, Sara Lettelleir, Heather Rosato and Andrea Vernot. Ms. Fenstermaker also announced that Mr. Hutchinson, a 2017 IRONMAN Maryland finisher, has stepped into a leadership position with the Club. He will be the organization’s Chief Ironman Booster (CIB) and spearhead efforts to motivate, organize and recruit club members.

“I believe Dorchester County and the City of Cambridge are a perfect place to race IRONMAN,” said Mr. Hutchinson. “I am hopeful that more businesses that prosper from both Eagleman and IRONMAN Maryland will become members of IRONClub so we can ensure these events remain here for many years to come.”

Since 2014, more than 300 individuals and organizations have joined the club. Membership fees range from $25 to $5,000. To become a member or learn about IRONClub, visit www.ironclubmd.org.

• Dion Banks works professionally at Rexnord (formerly Cambridge International) and is involved in many community initiatives. He co-founded the Eastern Shore Network for Change, an organization that fosters communication among multiple stakeholders to inform, educate and foster change that leads to social and economic empowerment.

• Susan Banks, director of Dorchester’s Economic Development office, works with the public and private sector to strengthen the county’s business climate. As an industry liaison and advocate, she helps small businesses harness IRONMAN’s economic opportunities.

• John Burtman has worked in the triathlon business for over 20 years producing events throughout Maryland. He serves as the Swim Safety Coordinator for IRONMAN 70.3 Eagleman and IRONMAN Maryland where he recruits volunteers, procures life guards and rescue personnel, sets up the courses and oversees swim safety.

• Natalie Chabot served 20 years as a tourism marketing professional throughout Maryland and most recently as the Economic Development Director for the City of Cambridge. She is the current board president of Sailwinds Park, Inc., the nonprofit organization of which IRONClub is affiliated.

• Jason Chance is heavily involved in the athletic world through his production company, TCR Event Management and triathlon store, TriCycle and Run of Saint Michaels. Affiliated with the Ironman race since it was acquired by the World Triathlon Corporation in 2014, he is also a certified Race Director for the Road Runners Club of America and USA Triathlon.

• Emma Diaz, a long-time IRONMAN volunteer, works professionally as the Program Administrator for Morning Star Youth Academy/Vision Quest. In this capacity, Ms. Diaz has regularly organized the program’s students as volunteers for endurance events.