The Race Track Chaplaincy of America (RCTA) 7th Annual White Horse Award, which recognizes racing-related heroic acts on behalf of human or horse, has been awarded to Steve Hiatt of San Pablo, Calif. Steve, a horse van operator in Northern California, is an unsung hero who routinely answers distress calls to transport critically ill or injured horses to the University of California, Davis, veterinary hospital. He has also assisted horsemen and women who have experienced mechanical break downs with a van or trailer full of horses. Steve comes to the rescue day or night, and he does it for the most part for free out of the kindness of his heart.

Steve Hiatt will be honored at the White Horse Hero's Luncheon at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, Calif., on Thursday, Nov. 5. The award luncheon is co-sponsored by the Daily Racing Form, Harris Farms, and Taylor Made Stallions. The White Horse Hero's Award Luncheon will be co-hosted by Carolyn Conley of HRTV'S morning show "Race Day America" and Hall of Fame jockey Pat Day.

A silent auction to benefit the RTCA will be held at the luncheon. Items in the auction include signed memorabilia from Laffit Pincay Jr., autographed drawings by world-renown racing cartoonist Peb, and leather halters worn by Rachael Alexandra and several leading Breeders' Cup contenders, including Mine That Bird. Tickets for the luncheon are still available by contacting the RTCA National Office at 310/419-1640.

This is the 37th consecutive year of service by the Race Track Chaplaincy of America to those in the horse race industry. The RTCA is an inter-denominational ministry dedicated to providing for the spiritual, emotional, physical, social, and educational needs of the horse racing industry workforce