RTCA Announces Recipients of White Horse and Community Service Awards

he Race Track Chaplaincy of America (RTCA) is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 RTCA White Horse Award and RTCA Community Service Award.

2026 RTCA White Horse Award
Since 2003, this special award has recognized individuals in the horse racing community whose courageous, compassionate, and selfless actions have made a meaningful impact on the lives of others, human or horse. Every year, remarkable stories emerge that remind us of the character, dedication, and heart found throughout our industry.

Max Corrales, a member of Santa Anita’s gate crew, has been named the recipient of the 2026 RTCA White Horse Award for his courageous response to a dangerous pre-race incident at Santa Anita Park. When a horse in the starting gate threw jockey Tiago Josue Pereira, Corrales immediately jumped down from his station and placed himself between the rider and the horse, risking his own safety to protect the rider. Although injured while rolling Pereira out of harm’s way, Corrales’ quick judgment and bravery helped prevent a potentially catastrophic accident.

RTCA Chaplain Eli Hernandez (Santa Anita/Del Mar) described Max as “a humble, hardworking individual who takes his job seriously and is committed to keeping horses and jockeys safe. What I also appreciate about Max is that he is a family man and a great dad to his daughter.” Max’s selfless act highlights the often-unseen contributions of gate crew members who help protect both horse and rider.

2026 RTCA Community Service Award
Each year, this award is presented to an individual who has made meaningful contributions to racetrack Chaplaincy ministries and the broader horse racing community. The award recognizes those who generously devote their time and energy to serving others and advancing the sport.

The 2026 RTCA Community Service Award recipient is Eric Hamelback, CEO of the National Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association. A Louisiana native and LSU graduate, Eric has held leadership roles at Prestonwood Farm, Adena Springs Farm, and Live Oak Stud. He serves on several racing industry boards and is a dedicated advocate for the retraining and rehoming of off-track Thoroughbreds. He lives in Paris, Kentucky, with his wife, Debra; they have two adult children. Eric also gives back to his community through youth sports and by officiating high school football.

“Few people promote the Chaplaincy and its benefits more than Eric,” said Dan Waits, RTCA Executive Director. “The strong relationship between RTCA Chaplaincies and HBPA affiliates nationwide is due in large part to Eric’s support of RTCA National.  We are thrilled to honor him with this well-deserved recognition.”

To honor this year’s recipients, a special presentation of the Community Service Award and a premiere of the White Horse Award video will take place at the RTCA Night of Faith, Hope & Love on Tuesday, October 27, at Keeneland. The White Horse Award video will then be distributed through various media and social media outlets, with a formal presentation ceremony of the White Horse Award to follow at Santa Anita.

For more information on these awards, please contact the RTCA National Office at (859) 410-7822 or info@rtcanational.org.