FOLLOWING  a special general meeting held on Thursday, 19 March 2015, the NHA issued a press release confirming the appointment of a new Chairman, in Mr Andy O’Connor.

Mr O’Connor joined the NHA Board last November, after standing for election against outgoing Chairman, Adv Altus Joubert, for the Central Provinces seat.

Hooooo…w…zatt!: Andy O’Connor.

Mr O’Connor is a businessman and former first class cricket umpire. He is currently president of Eastern Cricket Union, chairman of Eastern Titans franchise and a board member of Cricket South Africa.

Mr O’Connor’s interest in horseracing started as a schoolboy in the 1960’s as many of his school friends were from racing families and the many racing stables in the area certainly created a desire to be involved with the racehorse.  He has been a colour holder since 1999 and has an interest in 10 racehorses as well as a couple of foals and mares.

For the past 5 years Mr O’Connor has served as a Director of the Racing Association and served on the NHA National Board as the Racing Association’s appointee during 2013. He is a member of the Appeal Board of the NHA.  Mr O’Connor has stated the desire to ensure that the credibility of the NHA is beyond reproach.