In a landmark move that will send shock waves to EVERY horse racing jurisdiction on earth, The Jockey Club of the United States has been recommended to ban the use of whips – altogether.
And in a separate move, Woodbine in Canada will adopt a restriction in whip use for the purposes of urging down the home straight, starting in three weeks, also.
America has slipped off its perch as the leading racing nation on the planet, but is still a powerful voice given how large it is. And this new move to ban the use of whips down the home straight, unless absolutely needed to prevent an accident, will begin a change that will effect every other racing territory should it be implemented across the country.
There are howls of disdain coming from all corners of the racing spectrum in the United states, but a VERY large number of supporters too who recognise change in this area is not only inevitable, but NEEDED if racing is to survive the scrutiny of the general public.
If accepted, the phasing in period would start immediately.
Here is EXACTLY what the Jockey Club’s Thoroughbred Safety Committee released while Australia slept on Wednesday night.
“The Association of Racing Commissioners International (ARCI) Model Rules Committee amends, and all regulatory authorities immediately adopt, ARCI Rule 010-035, Article (E)(7) to eliminate the use of the riding crop for encouragement and include new penalty guidelines for breach of the rule. The riding crop shall be used only to avoid dangerous situations to horse and rider. Progressive penalty guidelines incorporate stewards’ review, fines, and suspensions for repeat offenders. Regulatory authorities should provide suitable time to educate stakeholders.”
Wow.
Australian jocks, the end of whip use down the home straight in races …… is coming!
