2026 National Horseplayers Championship: Who's Who at the 27th NHC

The field of 625 horseplayers from 46 states and 3 countries compete for $825,000 grand prize

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The 27th National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) National Horseplayers Championship (NHC) presented by Caesars Sportsbook, Horseshoe Las Vegas, and Racetrack Television Network (RTN) kicks off on March 13 and runs through March 15 at Horseshoe Las Vegas. The field of approximately 625 individuals, ranging in age, experience, and number of NHC appearances, will compete for the $825,000 grand prize and the title of 2026 Horseplayer of the Year.

Why it matters

The NHC is the most prestigious tournament in the sport of horse racing, drawing the top handicappers from across the country and around the world to compete for the title of Horseplayer of the Year. The event helps drive interest and engagement in the sport, and the winner's title and prize money are highly coveted in the horse racing community.

The details

The NHC field includes players from 46 states, Canada, New Zealand, and Panama. A record 117 contestants are first-time participants, with the youngest competitor being 21-year-old Jason Santilla of Chicago and the oldest being 90-year-old Bill Alberg of Denver. Several players are making their 20+ consecutive appearances, including Sally Goodall, Paul Shurman, and Trey Stiles (24 times each), and Bill Shurman (23 times). Eight previous NHC winners will be returning to try to become the first repeat champion, including defending titleholder Dan Piazza of Chicago.

  • The 27th NHC kicks off on Friday, March 13, 2026 and runs through Sunday, March 15, 2026.
  • The Last Chance / First Chance Contest to determine the final field will take place on Thursday, March 12, 2026.

The players

Dan Piazza

The defending champion of the 2026 NHC, looking to become the first repeat winner of the event.

Paul Matties Jr.

The 2016 NHC champion, one of eight previous winners returning to compete.

Dave Nichols

The 2025 NHC Tour Champion, eligible for a $5 million bonus if he can capture the 2026 NHC title.

Eddie Olczyk

NBC Sports analyst and handicapper, one of the notable entrants in this year's NHC.

Dave Portnoy

The founder of Barstool Sports, another notable entrant in the 2026 NHC.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The winner of the 2026 NHC will be honored as the Horseplayer of the Year at the Eclipse Awards ceremony.

The takeaway

The 27th NHC represents the pinnacle of horse racing handicapping, drawing the top players from across the country and around the world to compete for the prestigious title and life-changing prize money. The event's continued growth and popularity underscores the enduring appeal of horse racing as a sport and hobby for passionate fans and bettors.