The National Horseplayers Championship (NHC) Hall of Fame continues to celebrate the achievements of top-tier tournament players. This prestigious recognition, voted on by peers, highlights the dedication and skill of those inducted. For the 11th annual induction ceremony, held during the NHC finals in Las Vegas from March 14-16, three new members will join this elite group. Jim Benes, Cheryl McIntyre, and Rich Nilsen have been selected for their outstanding contributions to the sport over the past 26 years. The NHC, known as the richest and most significant handicapping tournament, boasts a total purse expected to exceed $4 million in 2025, with the winner receiving an Eclipse Award as Horseplayer of the Year.

Rich Nilsen, a seasoned figure in the racing industry, has spent three decades honing his craft. Starting as a young enthusiast learning from his father, Nilsen has since become a pivotal player in the world of horse racing. His career spans various roles, from working in trainers' barns to holding marketing director positions at prominent companies like Brisnet and TwinSpires. Notably, he pioneered online NHC qualifier contests and founded AGameofSkill.com, a platform dedicated to educating and promoting horse racing. Nilsen's success is underscored by qualifying for 19 out of 26 NHC finals and winning eight major tournaments. His approach, which integrates pedigree analysis, trainer statistics, pace, and speed figures, exemplifies his comprehensive understanding of the sport.

Cheryl McIntyre, another inductee, has made her mark through consistent performance and commitment. As a 13-time NHC qualifier and the 2016 NHC Tour champion, she has been a driving force behind the growth of the NHC Tour. Alongside her husband Mike, McIntyre has participated in countless on-track and online qualifiers, often competing in multiple events each weekend. Her induction into the Hall of Fame comes as a surprise but well-deserved honor, making her only the third woman to receive this distinction. McIntyre's journey reflects both personal achievement and a passion for the game that has inspired many.

Jim Benes, a long-standing figure in Chicago's racing community, adds another layer of depth to the 2025 class. Winning the 2013 NHC with a prize of $750,000, Benes has consistently excelled in tournaments. His victories at Woodbine, Indiana Grand, Hawthorne, and the Ultimate Betting Challenge highlight his versatility and skill. Benes' induction underscores the importance of the NHC in every horseplayer's career aspirations. For him, being part of the Hall of Fame is a testament to the evolution of horse racing and the camaraderie among players.

The NHC Hall of Fame not only recognizes individual achievements but also celebrates the collective spirit of the horse racing community. The induction of Benes, McIntyre, and Nilsen marks a significant milestone in the tournament's history. Their stories inspire current and future generations of horseplayers, emphasizing the value of dedication, innovation, and mutual respect. As the NHC continues to grow, these inductees serve as role models, embodying the essence of what it means to be a true horseplayer.