RSPCA: a cautious welcome to the BHA’s new whip rules

Tuesday, 27 September 2011 4:12 PM

The RSPCA has cautiously welcomed the British Horseracing Authority (BHA)’s new rules, published today (Tuesday), which are intended to limit whip-use and greatly increase penalties for jockeys who break the rules.

These measures were included in recommendations made by the RSPCA in its submission to the BHA’s review of the whip, which was announced in April 2011 following concerns about jockeys’ use of the whip during the Grand National.

Increased punishments

RSPCA equine consultant David Muir said: “We need to examine the report in detail, but at first sight it would appear the BHA has made some positive changes to which we give a cautious welcome; we will be monitoring their implementation to see if they have made a real difference to horse welfare.

“Five of the six key recommendations the RSPCA made to the BHA have been introduced, including a substantial reduction in the number of times jockeys can use the whip during a race. However, we are disappointed that the BHA has not changed the rules to prevent the use of the whip in the forehand.

“Also key are the changes to punishments jockeys receive if they break the rules, including much longer suspensions which increase with repeat offences, forfeiture of prize money, and possible licensing implications. We hope these changes will mean that the few jockeys who have misused the whip will think twice in future.”

Jockeys must respect rules

Mr Muir added: “I sincerely hope that from now on jockeys will stay within the rules and keep their use of the whip to a minimum. Otherwise they are setting a bad example and making the sport of horseracing appear cruel. We will closely monitor the effects of this review and continue to work actively with the BHA for better racehorse welfare.”

Notes to editors:

— The introduction of the shock absorbing whip, which all jockeys now have to use, was an RSPCA initiative developed in conjunction with the Jockey Club and whip manufacturers.

— Changes to the Grand National course have also come about as a result of the lobbying of the RSPCA on the grounds of safety and equine welfare.

RSPCA, Wilberforce Way, Southwater, Horsham, West Sussex RH13 9RS
Press office direct lines: 0300 123 0244/0288 Fax: 0303 123 0099
Duty press officer (evenings and weekends) Tel 08448 222888 and ask for pager number 828825
Email: press@rspca.org.uk Website: www.rspca.org.uk

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• sport