Racing Officials Accreditation Program

ROAP APPOINTS O’MEARA AS COORDINATOR OF RACING OFFICIALS

Cathy O’Meara

Cathy (McNeeley) O’Meara has been appointed coordinator of racing officials for the Racing Officials Accreditation Program (ROAP), it was announced today by ROAP Chairman Stan Bowker.

ROAP, which receives primary funding from The Jockey Club and is based in its Kentucky office, is a collaborative effort of 18 industry organizations striving to enhance integrity in the pari-mutuel racing industry. The organization accredits and provides continuing education for stewards, judges and racing officials in cooperation with the universities of Arizona and Louisville.

The other industry organizations involved are American Quarter Horse Association, Association of Racing Commissioners International, Breeders’ Cup, Confederación Hípica del Caribe, Harness Tracks of America, Keeneland Association, National Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, National Steeplechase Association, National Thoroughbred Racing Association, Oak Tree Racing Association, Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association, Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association, Thoroughbred Racing Associations of North America, The Jockeys’ Guild, United States Trotting Association, University of Arizona Race Track Industry Program and University of Louisville Equine Industry Program.

Sunland Park, Hollywood Park and the Race for Education also contribute to the ROAP effort.

O’Meara will oversee ROAP’s day-to-day operations, including the On Call Stewards’ Program, and will work closely with the universities of Arizona and Louisville to coordinate accreditation and continuing education seminars for stewards and judges.

O’Meara, a former Thoroughbred trainer and farm manager, has been with The Jockey Club since 2006 and assists with its many industry and safety initiatives, including the Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summit and the Equine Injury Database.

She obtained a bachelor’s degree in animal and poultry science from Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Va., and a master’s degree in business administration from Sullivan University in Lexington, Ky.

O’Meara succeeds Jennifer Voss-Franco, who has decided to pursue another opportunity in the Thoroughbred industry.

“Jennifer came aboard when ROAP had evolved to the point that it needed a full-time professional to manage its operations and we appreciate her diligence over the past two years,” said Bowker. “Cathy brings a unique and diverse skill set to the organization, and we are confident that she will help ROAP meet and exceed its objectives going forward.”

The ROAP website, horseracingofficials.com, features information about the accreditation process, a comprehensive listing of accredited racing officials, and lists of job openings and upcoming events.