White Horse Award Winners Announced

[Wandering Eyes]

The Race Track Chaplaincy of America revealed the winners of its White Horse Awards Thursday, with the recipients to be honored at the 17th Annual White Horse Awards Thursday, Oct. 31 in the Chandelier Room at Santa Anita. The awards honor “heroism on behalf of human or horse.”

This year’s White Horse Award goes to Gilbert Cardenas, assistant starter at Del Mar. On Sunday, July 27, after the start of a turf race, one of the other assistant starters crumpled to the ground, the victim of a heart attack. Cardenas shed his vest and helmet and began checking his co-worker for signs of life. Finding none, he began CPR, aided by Arturo Moreno, another turf course worker. They continued to administer CPR until the paramedics arrived. Because of their quick action and with the help of other Del Mar team members, their co-worker is now recovering and expects to be back at the track soon.

RTCA also recognized another finalist for the award, Heather Cellinesi, who saved the lives of 18 horses from a barn that was engulfed in flames at the Anchor & Hope in Port Deposit, Md. Aug. 12.

“The heroic actions of individuals like Gilbert and Heather exemplify what the White Horse Award is all about, which is humbly sacrificing yourself for others,” said Dan Waits, Executive Director of RTCA. “We want to thank all who submitted nominations and for the ongoing support of this award.”

The RTCA has also chosen racetrack executive Corey Johnsen as the recipient of its Community Service Award. “Throughout his illustrious career, Corey has always promoted and championed the Chaplaincies of RTCA and is very deserving. This award shows our deepest appreciation,” Waits said.

If you wish to attend the White Horse Awards ceremony, click here for more details.

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