Jockeys want deferment on new whip rules

[kiwiz]

Source AAP

Jockeys from around the country have called on Racing Australia to defer the introduction of new whip rules.

Meetings were held at 21 racetracks around Australia on Saturday over new rules that are due to come into force on December 1.

The new rules mean jockeys cannot use the whip in a forehand or backhand manner more than five times before the 100m mark.

Previously jockeys could use the whip in a backhand manner, provided they were not excessive in its use.

Riders can still use the whip at their discretion in the final 100m.

Queensland Jockeys' Association President Glen Prentice told a meeting at Doomben on Saturday that RA had gone ahead with a December 1 implementation without consulting the 22 national associations involving trainers, owners and breeders.

Brisbane jockeys voted unanimously for RA to defer the proposed start date until concerns were addressed.

They also called on RA to explain why there needed to be a change and they thought RA had failed to engage in meaningful consultation about the new laws.

Jockeys asked that RA establish a working party.

Victorian Jockeys' Association chief executive officer Des O'Keeffe said feedback the meetings would be sent to RA.

"We will collate the responses from about 400 participants at those meetings, provide them to Racing Australia and then await their response," O'Keeffe said.

The meetings also heard concerns about jockeys' new helmets that are to be introduced.

[Sands]

Going ahead as planned according to Racing Australia

[jimmyz]

Going ahead as planned according to Racing Australia
Will be watching Damien Oliver rides with an extra interest. Oliver has made it very public where he stands on the issue.

[Shaun]

I actually think if they banned the whip altogether and let the jockeys use their own skill to get the best from the horse this would be a better option, although i do see with 2 yr that the whip can be used to control their actions, i wonder if they didn't use whips we would see more interference.

[MyHatMyCoat]

I know the WA Jockeys' Association isn't happy with the new rules. Next Saturday's Ascot stewards report might be an interesting read. Already a lot of pressure for the WA riders over the Carnival period. More black-type races to come on Saturday.

[rhino82]

Kilmore today

"Articulate Man (NZ) - rider Dale Smith stated the gelding, which was having its first race start today, did not respond to his riding in the middle stages and the early part of the straight, and as he was only able to use his whip on five occasions prior to the 100m, he felt this was detrimental to the horses performance. Stewards noted his explanation."

[blackdog1]

Kilmore today

"Articulate Man (NZ) - rider Dale Smith stated the gelding, which was having its first race start today, did not respond to his riding in the middle stages and the early part of the straight, and as he was only able to use his whip on five occasions prior to the 100m, he felt this was detrimental to the horses performance. Stewards noted his explanation."Putting objective numbers to subjective situations is insane.
I can't imagine any sane person would come up with this system.
Some horses need urging at certain times and a number of times others not at all.
How in the name of God can you arbitrarily assign a number of strokes needed or allowed at designated distances is beyond me.

[rhino82]

Kilmore today

"Articulate Man (NZ) - rider Dale Smith stated the gelding, which was having its first race start today, did not respond to his riding in the middle stages and the early part of the straight, and as he was only able to use his whip on five occasions prior to the 100m, he felt this was detrimental to the horses performance. Stewards noted his explanation."
And Tuncurry same day

"R6 Antonaire- G. Buckley was reprimanded (AR 137A (5) (a) (ii)) for using the whip on the gelding on more than five occasions (7) before the 100m.

R8 Interest Free- Began awkwardly losing ground (2L). G. Coleman was reprimanded (AR137A (5) (a) (ii)) for using the whip on the gelding on more than five occasions (10) before the 100m. In assessing penalty stewards took into account this was the first occasion in which G. Coleman had offended under this rule in the past five years."

[Chrome Prince]

Perhaps I'm in the minority.
I do believe that a whip should be used in the case of straightening up the mount or in the case of rider safety. (e.g. a rider had his leg crushed on the running rail prior to the new rails that were introduced).
The rule of no more than five times prior to the 100m mark is open ended and needs to be modified.
A jockey could whip the horse when it has no chance whatsoever.
It could also mean a horse is whipped five times in 200m at the start of a race. Crazy and cruel.

Jockeys are still free to whip every other stride within the 100m mark.
Acceptable? Perhaps.
Whatever happened to the masters of hands and heels?

"Articulate Man (NZ) - rider Dale Smith stated the gelding, which was having its first race start today, did not respond to his riding in the middle stages and the early part of the straight, and as he was only able to use his whip on five occasions prior to the 100m, he felt this was detrimental to the horses performance. Stewards noted his explanation."

He must be joking, the horse finished 10.95L behind the winner, prior to this had trialled twice at Cranbourne finishing 7th of 8 and 5th of 6.
The horse has either joint or lower hoof problems because he's worn concussion plates on soft ground. Normally these are worn from jarring up on firmer ground. In a nutshell, the horse has issues, no wonder he did not respond in the middle and early part of the straight. I believe the horse was in pain, to whip the horse would have been inhumane in this situation.

Antonaire- G. Buckley was reprimanded (AR 137A (5) (a) (ii)) for using the whip on the gelding on more than five occasions (7) before the 100m.

Finished 6th of 11, but only 1.7L from the winner. Excessive use of the whip did not result in a win and it was a blanket finish, so the pace must have been a cracker. The horse was 8th@800m and 10th@400m and jumping up in class. Question remains for me, whipping the horse 7 times when horses were all making the same headway and running over the top of him, is this justified?

Interest Free- Began awkwardly losing ground (2L). G. Coleman was reprimanded (AR137A (5) (a) (ii)) for using the whip on the gelding on more than five occasions (10) before the 100m. In assessing penalty stewards took into account this was the first occasion in which G. Coleman had offended under this rule in the past five years

10 occasions over 1300m, that's possibly once every 130m but probably much much worse.
Horse has only won once in 42 starts. Despite the heavy use of the whip, horse finished 14th of 14 10.9L.

This is where I personally draw the line in these instances, if a horse is losing ground, not up to the speed, being run past, or simply outclassed, why whip a horse trying it's best, especially when battling issues. It just doesn't cut it.

[Shaun]

Fantastic Chrome, you have a far better insight to this than some jockeys perhaps, i do agree with your comments my only thoughts are that it is easier to look at the situation after the fact, i guess some jockeys having more experience will make it easier for them to judge what best to do at the time.

[rhino82]

And Ipswich yesterday:

Reprimands
Race 1. App. C. Schmidt – use whip more than 5 times prior to the 100m – AR. 137A(5)(a)(ii)
Race 3. T. Harrison – use whip more than 5 times prior to the 100m – AR. 137A(5)(a)(ii)
Race 6. R. Fradd – use whip more than 5 times prior to the 100m – AR. 137A(5)(a)(ii)
Race 8. App. B. Appo – use whip more than 5 times prior to the 100m – AR. 137A(5)(a)(ii)

[rhino82]

And Bunbury yesterday:

* Race 2. Jockey Willie White GRAND ALLIANCE $150 ARR.137A(4)(c) and (d)
for using an unnecessary amount of whip when his mount was out of
contention and showing no response.

Race 8. Apprentice Randy Tan (TRULY MAGICAL) was warned under the
provisions of the recently amended AR.137A(5)(a)(ii) for using the whip on
one additional occasion than permitted prior to the 100m.

* Not part of new whip rules?

[rhino82]

And William Hill Park Hillside yesterday:

R3 Testability - slow into stride. Apprentice Ben Thompson was warned for using his whip on six occasions prior to the 100m which is one time more than permitted. Rider Ben Thompson said his mount would appreciate a track with more give.

R6 Ten Goals - rider Craig Williams was warned for using his whip six times prior to the 100m which is one time more than permitted. Craig Williams reported his mount, which was first up today, had to work hard in the early stages and this was detrimental to its chances when unable to finish off as expected.

R8 Monogram - steadied off the heels of Samertha Heights passing the 400m. Rider Craig Williams was warned for using his whip six times prior to the 100m which is one time more than permitted.

R8 Taylahs Secret - checked near the 100m to avoid the heels of Arianne (NZ) which shifted in before being straightened by its rider, Ryan Maloney. Rider Patrick Moloney was warned for using his whip seven times prior to the 100m, which is two times more than permitted under the new rules.

R8 Kelkea - rider Harry Coffey was warned for using his whip eight times prior to the 100m which is three times more than permitted under the new rules. H Coffey stated in his opinion it would be suited on tracks with more give.

[rhino82]

And Canterbury yesterday:

R4 Progressive – was held up rounding the home turn and in the early part of the straight. Rider J McDonald was spoken to regarding using the whip in a backhand manner on consecutive occasions prior to the 100m

R4 Miss Denni – laid in under pressure in the straight. Rider B Shinn was spoken to regarding using the whip in a backhand manner on consecutive occasions prior to the 100m

[rhino82]

Still lots of reprimands, now also seeing some fines.
For example:

Rockhampton 3 Dec
Race 1: Apprentice N. Vuille $100 - use whip more than 5 times and in consecutive manner prior to 100m. (A.R.137A)

Doomben 5 Dec
Race 3: R. Fradd – $200 – use whip in consecutive strides and more than 5 times prior to 100m – AR. 137A(5)(a)(i) & (ii)
Race 9: C. Williams – $200 – use whip more than 5 times prior to 100m – AR. 137A(5)(a)(ii)

Wagga 5 Dec
Race 3: Ms M. Taylor(a)- $200- Whip use- AR137A(5)(a)(ii)

Sunshine Coast 6 Dec
Race 1: Apprentice N. Vuille $100 - use whip more than 5 times and in consecutive manner prior to 100m. (A.R.137A)

Murray Bridge 6 Dec
Race 2 – J. Kah (EXALTED LIGHTNING) – Fined $100 – AR137A(5)(a)(ii)[+8] – Whip offence.

Terang 7 Dec
Race 10 Anthony Boyd $200, consecutive whip use

[Sands]

Queensland jockeys struggling a bit with the new whip rule
A total of 24 breaches of the rule have been recorded across eight TAB meetings in the first five days

[Chrome Prince]

I can understand if your horse is a chance or you need to get out of trouble, but of all these breaches in the rules, very few resulted in even placings.
If your horse is gone, it's gone.
This is where a great deal of damage is done to the horse, the horse doesn't have the capability of determining the cause of hurt in a race situation. It leads to bleeding, fractures, heart attacks, broken legs, muscle cartilage damage, shin splints and bowed tendons because the horse will over extend beyond it's limits.
This is why so many breakdowns occur and why many good horses lose all form.
If you've got a lap full of horse and don't think you'll make it to the line, then use the whip. If you're leading or chasing the leader and you think you have a chance use the whip. But belting the living daylights out of a no hoper (this race) does nobody any favours.
Trainers can say "you didn't use the whip enough", but that's just an excuse, I'm quite sure the trainer would rather have a sound horse to go on with, than a breakdown, vets, osteopaths, chiropractors etc etc.
Stewards aren't going to penalise a jockey when the horse is struggling for not using the whip.
Just my opinion.

[kiwiz]

In NZ you see very little whip use before the home bend.

The rule here is a jockey can use the whip on six consecutive strides at any part of the race then the rider must place the whip hand back on the reins for six consecutive strides.

From the 200m whip use is unrestricted provided the horse is in contention for a stake-bearing place.

[grizzle]

Still lots of reprimands, now also seeing some fines.

Victorian stewards have been giving jockeys two warnings & two reprimands before the penalties increase to fines
ample time to become accustomed to the new rule imo

[kiwiz]

Interesting (related) article on the RSPCA website

http://www.rspca.org.au/campaigns/whips-racing/study-whip-use-jockeys

[kiwiz]

Obviously Sam Clipperton having problems with the new whip rules
Recently completed a 4 meeting suspension for excessive whip use,,now has a seven meeting penalty to complete for the same offense

[Sands]

Queensland became the first state in Australia to uphold a protest due to excessive whip use when Rosella, who initially deadheated with Stonecast, was demoted to second in Race 4 at the Sunshine Coast earlier this month.

It came after Rosella’s jockey Taylor Williams used the whip eight times, three more than allowed, prior to the 100m mark.

Source: gold coast bulletin

[Sands]

Tommy Berry has just returned from suspension. Outed for breaking the new whip rule on April 2nd. Found guilty of striking Tavago 6 times before the 100m in the ATC Australian Derby, also fined $2000.
The rule allows jockeys to hit a horse only 5 times until that point.

Same day, also fined for excessive whip use were Sam Clipperton ($800) for being 1 strike over on Alegria in the Chairman’s Handicap; Hugh Bowman ($2000) on Pera Pera in the Country Championships Final; Luke Currie ($400) on Super Cash in the PJ Bell Stakes and Zac Purton ($2000) on Yankee Rose in the Sires’ Produce Stakes.

[JB1]

Whip use suspensions becoming more common
Ben Allen & Ben Melham recently

[JB1]

And another one bites the dust!
Chelsea Hall, whip suspension, 5 meetings

[kiwiz]

"The Racing Australia Board will deliver a report on the new whip rules to each Principal Racing Authority for discussion.

A Sub-Committee will seek written submissions from stakeholder groups and participants and, if appropriate, meet with them before reporting to the Racing Australia Board at its September 14 meeting."

Source: Racenet

[kiwiz]

Topsy-turvy day for HK apprentice Eric Cheung last Friday
Won on Radiologist at Coffs Harbour,,first ride in Oz I believe
Then had to survive a protest from the runner-up
Then was fined & suspended for excessive whip use

[grizzle]

apprentice Brooke Sweeney suspended for 5 meetings for using her whip 7 times prior to the 100m - twice more than permitted, aboard Leveraction at Flemington last saturday

[kiwiz]

apprentice Brooke Sweeney suspended for 5 meetings for using her whip 7 times prior to the 100m - twice more than permitted, aboard Leveraction at Flemington last saturday
Won an appeal,,Brooke's whip suspension reduced to a $1000 fine

[Chrome Prince]

Has anyone noticed the number of times the jockeys get their reins tangled and struggle to get the whip out? I always thought they were taught to cross their reins coming into the home straight to prevent this.
I watch all the replays, and I've seen the whip rule broken so many times, I think they are going to have to revise it sooner than later.

[walkermac]

I watch all the replays, and I've seen the whip rule broken so many times, I think they are going to have to revise it sooner than later.They're more likely to ban whip use in its entirety in the current environment.

[kiwiz]

apprentice Brooke Sweeney suspended for 5 meetings for using her whip 7 times prior to the 100m - twice more than permitted, aboard Leveraction at Flemington last saturday
Fines totalling well over $300,000 imposed on jockeys this year for using their whip more than 5 times prior to the 100m

[darkydog2002]

Appearing to do their bit to help solve Australia,s debt problem.

In the heat of a close finish what jockey has time to count the number of times the whip has been struck.

Cheers.
darky

[kiwiz]

Fines totalling well over $300,000 imposed on jockeys this year for using their whip more than 5 times prior to the 100m
Of that total,,over $100,000 in fines for Victorian jockeys
They top the national list for whip offences

[kiwiz]

Queensland jockeys,,with over $70,000 in fines,,are 2nd to Victoria

[Sands]

Fines totalling well over $300,000 imposed on jockeys this year for using their whip more than 5 times prior to the 100m
The push is on to change from 5 to 8, prior to the 100m.
This would eliminate 93% of current breaches.

[kiwiz]

The push is on to change from 5 to 8, prior to the 100m.
This would eliminate 93% of current breaches.
Would look like a good move to me ;)

[kiwiz]

Whip usage restriction been in place for a while in the UK
Introduced in 2011,,the permitted number of uses of the whip,,7 times for flat races & 8 times for jumps races
A maximum of 5 strokes in the last furlong or from the final obstacle

In 2012 amended whip regulations were implemented,,under which stewards can use their discretion as to whether to punish a jockey for ‘excessive whipping’
So not automatic fines / suspensions

[kiwiz]

Interesting comment from Zac Purton recently

Some of his winners in Hong Kong would not have won had he been riding to the new Australian whip rules

Purton feels encouraged to ride winners in Hong Kong because the only whip rule there is that a horse out of contention is not unduly tested & all reasonable and permissible measures are taken to ensure a horse is given a full opportunity to win or to obtain the best possible placing

[kiwiz]

Whip usage restriction been in place for a while in the UK
Introduced in 2011,,the permitted number of uses of the whip,,7 times for flat races & 8 times for jumps races

Regardless of the distance of the race,,same threshold of strikes for a five-furlong sprint as for a two-mile staying race

[kiwiz]

"The Racing Australia Board will deliver a report on the new whip rules to each Principal Racing Authority for discussion.

A Sub-Committee will seek written submissions from stakeholder groups and participants and, if appropriate, meet with them before reporting to the Racing Australia Board at its September 14 meeting."

Source: Racenet
We should hear something shortly

[kiwiz]

Whip rules in NZ are pretty lenient compared to some other countries but stewards are still being pretty proactive in their monitoring
Only a few weeks back,,five riders faced the wrath of stewards for excessive use of the whip
All at the one meeting!

[kiwiz]

Whip usage restriction been in place for a while in the UK
Introduced in 2011,,the permitted number of uses of the whip,,7 times for flat races & 8 times for jumps races
A maximum of 5 strokes in the last furlong or from the final obstacle

In 2012 amended whip regulations were implemented,,under which stewards can use their discretion as to whether to punish a jockey for ‘excessive whipping’
So not automatic fines / suspensions
Similar in France,,where a jockey is not allowed to use the whip more than 8 times during a race
And they have an interesting addendum ?
Nor can they take a whip off a fellow jockey during a race! :)

[rhino82]

Nor can they take a whip off a fellow jockey during a race! :)
They wouldn't, would they :) lol

[kiwiz]

In Germany the use of the whip is limited to a maximum of 5 hits which a rider may give to a horse during the whole race,,only for the purpose of encouragement

Even this number of hits could be deemed too much if the horse is well beaten or easily winning or being clear for its placing

[kiwiz]

Whip rules in Oz changed for jumps racing a few months back
Jockeys are now allowed to use the whip up to 10 times before the 100m but not in consecutive strides
Jockeys will not be allowed to use the whip in consecutive strides during the final 100m of an event

[Sands]

They wouldn't, would they :) lol
Has happened, but not that often
I remember reading about at least three incidents where a jockey 'borrowed' a whip from a rival
Two in the UK & one here
Some years back Shane Scriven received a hefty ban for stealing an apprentice's whip during a race at Ipswich
Didn't help the first one (Davy Russell) in the UK, finished unplaced & copped a suspension
Then of course there was Lester Piggot, Piggott stated the other jockey didn't need it, Piggot's mount ran 2nd
Didn't wash with officials who relegated Piggott to third

And from memory, more recently, Josh Cartwright attempted to borrow another riders whip at a Canberra meeting
Stewards fined Cartwright & warned him the penalty would have been far greater had his attempted snatch-and-grab been successful

[kiwiz]

Then of course there was Lester Piggot, Piggott stated the other jockey didn't need it, Piggot's mount ran 2nd
Didn't wash with officials who relegated Piggott to third

Lester Piggot makes for an interesting read,,a lot of ups & downs
As for whip "borrowing",,another example USA late last year
Angel Castillo copped a 20-day suspension & $1,500 fine for snatching a whip out of a rival rider’s hands & using it to propel his mount into second place

[walkermac]

"Australian harness racing is banning the use of whips in training and racing from 1 September 2017 in a world-leading animal welfare initiative that improves the industry’s image and enhances its sustainability."
(http://www.harness.org.au/news-article.cfm?news_id=31814)

If it's a successful move I imagine there would be pressure on thoroughbred racing to follow (presuming they don't take the initiative themselves).

[kiwiz]

No immediate plans for NZ harness to follow suit
NZ recently made changes to their whip policies pertaining to how often they can be used

[JB1]

Whips are not allowed to be used in Norway
Their thoroughbred racing industry remains healthy

[jake]

..amended whip rules for france..from feb1
..the maximum number of strikes with the whip will be reduced from 8 to 6

[Shaun]

I personally think that they should ban it nationwide, then there is no advantage and jockey's can showcase their riding skills, i do understand how the whip is used to control a runners direction but can this also just be done using rider skill?

[rhino82]

An International approach would be even better
Yet another different rule for Ireland
Determining a breach of the rules for too many strikes is at the discretion of the stewards
Around 12 strikes usually gets their attention

[grizzle]

this seems to be a popular solution, starting with the 2yo's

"The whip may be carried, to be used forward of the saddle, slap down the shoulder with both hands on reins, or waved at the horse forward with the hand coming off the rein, but never used behind the saddle."

[jake]

this seems to be a popular solution, starting with the 2yo's

..might have read the same article
..start with the 2yo's..stage 1
..followed by the 3yo's..stage 2
..then the remainder..stage 3

[Sands]

Does that means that 3yo could be at a disadvantage during stage 2, if they were to race against older horses

[jake]

..possibly

[ubetiwill]

"Australian harness racing is banning the use of whips in training and racing from 1 September 2017
I'm guessing this ban may assist the front runners more than those back in the pack? Interesting to see how things pan out

[Davi]

I think these are the up-to-date rules for Swedish harness

The driver must have one rein in each hand during the entire race; the whip cannot be used with both reins in one hand. The whip may not be used from the side, not be used on the sulky or on the horse's equipment. Several fast whippings one after another are forbidden.

[westman]

Australian harness racing is banning the use of whips in training and racing from 1 September 2017 ).
As a matter of interest, here's a short history of whips in Australian harness racing

1800s: Whips first used for trotting races
1970s: Cane whip replaced with fiberglass inside a plaited nylon cover
1990s: Whip length reduced
2010: Rules changed, drivers only allowed to use elbow and wrist action
2016: Drivers must have one rein in each hand at all times
Sep 2017: Australia to become the first country to voluntarily ban whips

[jake]

I'm guessing this ban may assist the front runners more than those back in the pack? Interesting to see how things pan out
..watching the trots at pinjarra today..lots of whip use
..very likely some different results without that use

[grizzle]

Australian harness racing is banning the use of whips in training and racing from 1 September 2017
seems harness racing south australia not fully committed

"from 1 May 2017, HRSA will be conducting trials utilising whip pads and a restricted ‘wrist action’ only in regard to whip use"

[kiwiz]

Winning jockey Tiffani Brooker,,Group 3 Gunsynd Classic,,Eagle Farm Saturday,,has been fined & suspended for using her whip on 17 occasions prior to the 100m,,a number of which were in consecutive strides & 10 times inside the 100m

Since reported that connections of the runner-up,,Violate,,beaten a lip,,are considering some kind of legal challenge or at the very least,,a formal complaint

[kiwiz]

The Queensland Racing Integrity Commission will take no action over a complaint regarding a breach of the whip rules in the Gunsynd Classic.

QRIC found that as connections of second-placed Violate had not lodged a protest before correct weight the result could not be changed under the rules of racing.

Source aap

[wotarun]

QRIC found that as connections of second-placed Violate had not lodged a protest before correct weight
Connections believed they should have been notified of their grounds to protest (by stewards) before correct weight was declared
Obviously that didn't happen

[Davi]

Connections believed they should have been notified of their grounds to protest (by stewards) before correct weight was declared

Stewards who observed the race at various points at the Eagle Farm race track saw nothing of concern in the running of the race. Hence no other action prior to correct weight

[Davi]

seems harness racing south australia not fully committed

"from 1 May 2017, HRSA will be conducting trials utilising whip pads and a restricted ‘wrist action’ only in regard to whip use"
I think those trials have been put on hold. Not sure why

[kiwiz]

I think those trials have been put on hold. Not sure why
Due to whip free trials being done in Tasmania using safety device 'Prototype 1',,a device of approximately 160cm in total length including a long padded end
It was concluded that the Prototype 1 was unwieldy,,too long and heavy. It was caught in the wind & drivers had trouble using in a timely manner.

[woody]

Stewards who observed the race at various points at the Eagle Farm race track saw nothing of concern in the running of the race. Hence no other action prior to correct weight
Stewards have the power to lodge a protest if there has been a rule breach prior to correct weight, the most common interference.
If it's a close finish they should not only look for interference, but also check that the riders have whipped their mounts within the rules before declaring correct weight.

[kiwiz]

Due to whip free trials being done in Tasmania using safety device 'Prototype 1',,a device of approximately 160cm in total length including a long padded end
It was concluded that the Prototype 1 was unwieldy,,too long and heavy. It was caught in the wind & drivers had trouble using in a timely manner.
Prototype 2 (a lighter & shorter device with a flap on the end) proved a better conveyance
It provided greater control,,safety & finesse

[Sands]

"The Racing Australia Board will deliver a report on the new whip rules to each Principal Racing Authority for discussion.

A Sub-Committee will seek written submissions from stakeholder groups and participants and, if appropriate, meet with them before reporting to the Racing Australia Board at its September 14 meeting."

Source: Racenet
So, did this happen?
Don't recall seeing any outcome

[kiwiz]

Australian harness racing is banning the use of whips in training and racing from 1 September 2017 ).
A lot of shaking of the reins

[grizzle]

think they're still using whips nsw harness

[walkermac]

From http://www.harness.org.au/news-article.cfm?news_id=34657

"Australia’s harness racing industry is moving towards a wrist-only use of the whip in racing following extensive consultations with industry participants.

The wrist-only plan comes after Harness Racing Australia said that, following the consultations, it became clear that it could not meet the 1 September deadline for implementing whip free racing.

The move to whip free racing has been put on hold because of widespread driver and Steward concerns about maintaining safety for drivers and horses".

"Mr Kelly said the decision of the Annual General Meeting of HRA in October 2016 to remove the use of whips from racing as a performance tool remained in place, and that HRA would continue to work with State bodies and consult with the industry in this important issue".

[grizzle]

so, that's why, thanks

[grizzle]

Luke Currie & Daniel Moor recent additions to the list of jockeys suspended for over-use of the whip

[woody]

Luke Currie & Daniel Moor recent additions to the list of jockeys suspended for over-use of the whip
Add Katelyn Mallyon
Was adjudged to have used the whip 12 times prior to the 100m mark in the Turnbull Stakes earlier this month
7 more uses above the 5 allowed

[woody]

And add Daniel Moor
Suspended Nov 11th for his overuse of the whip after his mount was narrowly beaten at Rosehill
Moor was found guilty of striking Lycurgus 14 times before the 100m – 9 more than he was allowed
He can resume riding this Wednesday

[darkydog2002]

Mein Gott,

The racing industry has gotten "precious"

It just gives ammunition to the left wing nutters who want to close the industry down.

[pipedream]

Other side of the coin

10-week suspension for Western Australian jockey Robert Markou
Failing to take all reasonable and permissible measures throughout the race to ensure his mount is given every opportunity to win

[woody]

Other side of the coin

10-week suspension for Western Australian jockey Robert Markou
Failing to take all reasonable and permissible measures throughout the race to ensure his mount is given every opportunity to win
Just read about it
Markou's mount ran 2nd
Stablemate won the race :rolleyes:

[darkydog2002]

" Boat Race "???

[kiwiz]

NZ Harness Racing recently updated their Use of the Whip Regulations
Also updated the penalty guide regarding whip breaches

[kiwiz]

NZ Harness Racing recently updated their Use of the Whip Regulations
Also updated the penalty guide regarding whip breaches
A key change is the introduction of a sliding scale of penalties for breach of the ten strike requirement based on the number of strikes made

[kiwiz]

A key change is the introduction of a sliding scale of penalties for breach of the ten strike requirement based on the number of strikes made
"No horseman is permitted to use their whip in a striking motion on more than ten occasions inside the final 400 metres.
This is inclusive of 'backhanders' and the use applies to the horse, harness and/or sulky."

[kiwiz]

A key change is the introduction of a sliding scale of penalties for breach of the ten strike requirement based on the number of strikes made
Sliding scale,,1st offence:
11-13 strikes $200
14-16 strikes $300
17+ strikes $500

[woody]

And add Daniel Moor
Suspended Nov 11th for his overuse of the whip after his mount was narrowly beaten at Rosehill
Moor was found guilty of striking Lycurgus 14 times before the 100m – 9 more than he was allowed
He can resume riding this Wednesday
David Pires was fined for whip infringements aboard Life On The Wire today
Fined for being 4 strikes over the limit before the final 100m & for using the whip 3 times in consecutive strides

[kiwiz]

NZ Harness Racing recently updated their Use of the Whip Regulations
Also updated the penalty guide regarding whip breaches
"No horseman is permitted to use their whip in an uninterrupted manner.
Whether a horseman is using the whip free of the rein or retaining a
hand or hands on the rein(s) the use must be sufficiently disrupted and distinct pauses must be visible"

[kiwiz]

NZ Harness Racing recently updated their Use of the Whip Regulations
Also updated the penalty guide regarding whip breaches
"No horseman shall apply the whip to a runner which is out of contention
for either a stake or dividend bearing place or on any horse which is not
responding or unable to hold its position in the race."

[kiwiz]

NZ Harness Racing recently updated their Use of the Whip Regulations
Also updated the penalty guide regarding whip breaches
"The whip must not be used excessively prior to the final 400 metres."

[kiwiz]

Damian Lane fined $5000 & suspended for 7 days after his winning ride on El Dorado Dreaming,,ATC Sires' Produce Stakes
Struck his mount 4 times more than permitted prior to the 100m mark

[kiwiz]

Damian Lane fined $5000 & suspended for 7 days after his winning ride on El Dorado Dreaming,,ATC Sires' Produce Stakes
Struck his mount 4 times more than permitted prior to the 100m mark
Damian Lane lodged an appeal against the penalty but the appeal was dismissed

[Sands]

An apprentice Kiwi jockey has been suspended for 12 national riding days for excessive use of his whip, in what the judicial committee labelled the worst breach they had ever witnessed under the rule.

Kavish Chowdhoory was found guilty of breaking New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing rule 638 (3)(b)(ii) when riding Ego Princess​ to victory at Avondale on Monday, with the committee describing his actions as 'inexcusable', 'grossly unacceptable' and that they 'raise alarming animal welfare and public concerns'.

The rule states: 'A rider shall not strike a horse with a whip in a manner or to an extent which is excessive'.


http://www.stuff.co.nz

[Chrome Prince]

I lost count but watched the replay, he hit Ego Princess in excess of 24 times from the home turn.

[woody]

The rule prohibiting use of whips which have not been approved by Racing Australia and whips that have been approved by Racing Australia but have been modified, is being extended to include possession of such whips by any person.

From 1 August 2018

[Chrome Prince]

Steward's report Flemington 21/07/2018

Apprentice Mitch Aitken pleaded guilty to a charge under the provisions of AR92(12) for failing to claim his full allowance in Race 2 (Linguist) and Race 4 (Credible Witness) and was fined $500. Mitch Aitken was 1kg over his declared minimum weight and this was Mitch Aitkens fourth offence this year under this rule.
Mitch Aitken pleaded guilty to a further charge of misconduct under the provisions of AR83a, the specifics of misconduct being:
(i) for disobeying a direction from a Steward to ensure he rides with the gear he weighs out with when weighing out to ride Credible Witness, and
(ii) after having weighed out to ride Credible Witness, he told a Steward a mis-truth regarding the riding gear he weighed out with. Mitch Aitken had his permit to ride in races suspended for a period to commence at midnight July 21st and to expire at midnight August 11th, a total of three weeks (twenty-one race meetings). In assessing penalty Stewards took into account his guilty plea and that he is an apprentice.

I have nothing more to say!

[Kingston Rule]

The rule prohibiting use of whips which have not been approved by Racing Australia and whips that have been approved by Racing Australia but have been modified, is being extended to include possession of such whips by any person.

From 1 August 2018
also from today, a new rule which prohibits the possession of a stockwhip in
relation to racing, training & pre-training

[Chrome Prince]

also from today, a new rule which prohibits the possession of a stockwhip in
relation to racing, training & pre-training

Not related to racing per se, but I've seen a video of a so called natural horsemanship horse breaker using a stock whip and was horrified.
I have used a stock whip, but never made contact with the horse at any stage, it was part of desensitising training, which I do with stock whips, cracking wood, riding whips and lunge whips. Again, the horse never comes into contact with any of these, they learn to accept the sounds, and that it will not hurt them.

[Kingston Rule]

Not related to racing per se, but I've seen a video of a so called natural horsemanship horse breaker using a stock whip and was horrified.
I have used a stock whip, but never made contact with the horse at any stage, it was part of desensitising training, which I do with stock whips, cracking wood, riding whips and lunge whips. Again, the horse never comes into contact with any of these, they learn to accept the sounds, and that it will not hurt them.
interesting info, thanks

[kiwiz]

France has recently tightened their whip rules
Two years ago they reduced the maximum permitted number of strokes from eight to six
Now the new maximum permitted number is five strokes

[Sands]

France has recently tightened their whip rules

I think Ireland did the same

[darkydog2002]

Ridiculous rules.

We are talking here of a 600 KG getting a few slaps with the whip.

No jockey worth his salt would overdo it.

I wonder where Australian Racing is going with all this "manbypamby " crap.

No wonder punters are abandoning horseracing.

[Sands]

I think Ireland did the same
From April 9th "any rider striking a horse nine times or more in a race will automatically trigger a stewards inquiry"

[Sands]

From April 9th "any rider striking a horse nine times or more in a race will automatically trigger a stewards inquiry"
Jockeys not happy
"Introducing eight-strike limit rule ‘shows lack of enlightened thinking’"

[kiwiz]

Jockeys not happy
"Introducing eight-strike limit rule ‘shows lack of enlightened thinking’"
Could be worse
As per my previous post France five-strike limit

[kiwiz]

Canada harness have recently implemented new whipping rules

Main points:

"Drivers must keep both hands in the handholds at all times. Drivers must limit the use of the whip at all times while on the racetrack.

Drivers can never reach back to whip a horse. All whipping movement must be done from the wrist. The forearm must remain perpendicular to the track when the whip is used.

For any infractions of the new rules, a driver can receive demerit points.

Once a driver has accumulated more than three points, that driver is suspended from driving on the next race card. After a driver receives their first suspension, they will be put on probation and suspended from the next race card each time they receive an additional demerit point."

[proxy]

Showjumping now on the list. From 1 January 2020, only cushion-type whips will be allowed in the UK. And also changes to spur rules.

[DCFC]

Interesting comments re whip rules by ex jockey, Clare Lindop.

https://twitter.com/FromTHMPodcast/status/1307610278327009280

[proxy]

Interesting read:

https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/10/11/2094

[proxy]

Courtesy ABC Radio Hobart

Tasmanian harness racing trainer & driver, Gavin Kelly, has been fined $1,000 for not carrying a whip. He is appealing against the ruling.

"I was told that it was on safety grounds. I was told I have to carry a whip, I didn't have to use it … from that point I haven't raced because the fines would rack up if I continued to not carry a whip."

[grizzle]

Courtesy ABC Radio Hobart

Tasmanian harness racing trainer & driver, Gavin Kelly, has been fined $1,000 for not carrying a whip. He is appealing against the ruling.

"I was told that it was on safety grounds. I was told I have to carry a whip, I didn't have to use it … from that point I haven't raced because the fines would rack up if I continued to not carry a whip."
March 19, 2021 by Gavin Kelly
Public, political and media pressure has seen authorities finally come to the negotiating table. Discussions have been positive and I have presented a path to resolution. The ball is currently with the Office of Racing Integrity and I am hopeful that in the near future we can announce a positive outcome. To all those who have been so supportive, thanks again.

[proxy]

The British Horseracing Authority has recently amended their whip use rules.
Now max of six times in a Flat race & seven times in a Jump race.