From his office on the outskirts of Dundalk, Co Louth, Barney O’Hare runs one of the last independent bookmaking chains. A gambler, a bookie and a trainer, O’Hare is behind Bar One Racing, which has expanded significantly in recent years into a network of 55 outlets. For good measure, he also owns a bowling alley and an amusement arcade. It might not have the marketing budget of Paddy Power, but Bar One Racing is still a significant operation, employing 297 people and generating annual revenues of €143 million. In addition to its physical footprint, it also offers on-track betting and…

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