Steve Hiatt, a horse van operator in Northern California, was named the recipient of the 2009 White Horse Award from the Race Track Chaplaincy of America on Friday.

The award annually honors racing-related heroic acts on behalf of humans or horses.

As a horse van operator, Hiatt answers distress calls to transport critically ill or injured horses to the University of California - Davis veterinary hospital. He also helps horsemen whose trailers or vans break down while filled with horses. Hiatt performs most of these services for free.

The Race Horse Chaplaincy of America will honor Hiatt on November 5 at Santa Anita Park at its White Horse Hero’s Luncheon, sponsored by Daily Racing Form, Harris Farms, and Taylor Made Stallions. The luncheon will also feature a silent auction to benefit the organization.