For the past three years, O'Hara has operated his own consulting firm, specializing in government and agency relations, business plan development, licensing projects, and management development. He is a graduate of the University of Arizona's Race Track Industry Program.
Former Penn National executive Phillip O'Hara has been appointed president and chief executive officer of Equibase, the official database of Thoroughbred racing statistics and information.O'Hara, who most recently served as an industry consultant, will begin at Equibase in early May. He replaces John Ertmann, who resigned as Equibase president in October."Phillip's proven leadership qualities, his business skills and his vast array of experience with pari-mutuel operations and the Thoroughbred industry in general will serve him well as Equibase's next president," said Alan Marzelli, chairman of the Equibase Management Committee. "We feel confident that with Phil at the helm, the Equibase team will continue to expand its service to this sport and enhance the Equibase brand in the process."Equibase is a partnership between The Jockey Club and Thoroughbred Racing Associations.Joe Harper, president of the TRA of North America (TRA), said, "We have seen the results of Phillip's work ethic and dedication to the industry over the past 20 years and we're certain he can and will capitalize on opportunities that exist in the ever-changing business landscape that surrounds us."O'Hara joined Penn National in 1985 as the assistant general manager and marketing director, before being named vice president/on-track operations in 1989 and then vice president/general manager in 1994. He subsequently served as executive vice president/pari-mutuel operations for Penn National Gaming Inc. from February 1998 until March 2000. During that time he was responsible for the development of business plans, management training, contract negotiations and government relations for three racetracks and 10 off-track sites.