USATF Foundation Welcomes Omar L. Simmons to Board of Directors

18 Aug USATF Foundation Welcomes Omar L. Simmons to Board of Directors

Posted at 09:11h in News by

EUGENE, OR – A former Princeton track & field captain, U.S. Olympic Trials competitor, and accomplished entrepreneur, Omar L. Simmons has joined the USA Track & Field Foundation Board of Directors, announced USATF Foundation Chairman Bob Greifeld and CEO Tom Jackovic.

Simmons is the Founder and Managing Partner of Exaltare Capital Management, a consumer-focused holding company with a diverse portfolio of multi-unit and franchise businesses. He previously founded and led ECP-PF, one of the largest Planet Fitness franchisees in the country, expanding operations from 15 to over 100 locations before selling a controlling stake in 2021.

A graduate of Princeton University and Harvard Business School,Simmons’ achievements extend well beyond the boardroom. A former captain of Princeton’s track & field team, he held the school’s 800m record with a time of 1:47.41 until 2021, earned multiple All-Ivy honors, and advanced to the quarterfinals of the 1992 U.S. Olympic Trials. Simmons credits the discipline, consistency, and growth mindset he developed as an athlete for his continued success in business and life.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Simmons is deeply committed to community impact. Together with his wife, Raynya, he co-founded the Franchise Ascension Initiative, which works to expand franchise ownership opportunities for underrepresented and disadvantaged communities. He also supports organizations dedicated to the Arts, Christian ministries, and socio-economic mobility.

“Omar is a perfect fit for the USATF Foundation board given his background in the sport and his experience in the business world.  We are excited to welcome him to our Foundation family.” said USATF Foundation CEO Tom Jackovic.



The USATF Foundation provides a means to attract and guide funds to new and innovative track and field programs with an emphasis on providing opportunities for youth athletes, emerging and experienced elite athletes, along with guidance on future career paths. The Foundation depends upon donations from its Board of Directors, major gifts, and from generous fans of track & field.

Elite athletes are supported by the Foundation via monetary grants, career counseling (mentoring and jobs) and participation in Run With US!. Youth athletes are supported via monetary grants to youth clubs.

For more information, or to contribute to the USA Track & Field Foundation, Click Here or contact Tom Jackovic at (412) 398-2484 or tjackovic@usatffoundation.org.