Jockeys satisfied by revision of controversial whip rules by BHA
RYAN MOORE has welcomed the British Horseracing Authority’s decision to allow jockeys to continue using the whip in the forehand position under new riding rules.
The BHA announced a series of alterations to the regulations in the summer, with jockeys only allowed to use the whip in the backhand position and serious breaches to result in disqualification from races and possible 28- day bans for riders in major races.
However, further revisions were made to those plans after a number of riders registered their disquiet, with the implementation of the backhandonly rule proving a particularly unpopular prospect.
The BHA reversed their decision on banning the forehand position yesterday, but overall permitted use of the whip in races will be reduced and penalties will be made much stiffer, with 40- day suspensions a possibility for the worst offences in class one and two races.
Three- times Flat champion Moore is pleased to see the BHA and riders agree on a revised outcome.
In a statement issued by the Professional Jockeys Association, he said: “We thank the many wellintentioned individuals who have spent time on this issue. Horseracing must be competitive, have integrity and aim for the highest possible standards from all participants.
“I welcome the fact that the backhand- only rule has been discarded and that the BHA will continue to discuss and work with us in the future and hope that British racing and other jurisdictions will work together to find long- term solutions.”
National Hunt jockey Tom Scudamore was part of the Whip Consultation Steering Group which drew up the new rules.
He added: “After the recent issues raised and consultations with the BHA board, through the PJA, I welcome the changes made.
“I hope that we can continue dialogue between both PJA and BHA to monitor the situation in order to maintain the highest standards that is expected every day in British racing.”
Fellow jockey Tom Cannon believes the new regulations should be “fairly black and white now”.
Flat riders will be allowed to strike their mounts six times in a race, with jump jockeys allowed seven uses of the whip – a compromise which Cannon feels is satisfactory when combined with tougher penalties.
He said: “They were pushing for us to use the backhand and it is what it is now. The forehand position looks better, it looks better to ride with, better for the horses, so hopefully common sense has prevailed. So, hopefully we can just get on with it now and concentrate on the racing.”