Prototype 2 (a lighter & shorter device with a flap on the end) proved a better conveyance
It provided greater control,,safety & finesse

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

A lot of shaking of the reins

think they're still using whips nsw harness

From http://www.harness.org.au/news-arti...m?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".

so, that's why, thanks

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

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

Mein Gott,

The racing industry has gotten "precious"

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