QRIC PROBE INTO EXCESSIVE WHIPPING ALLEGATIONS

THE Queensland Racing Integrity Commission have opened an investigation into alleged excessive whip use towards a horse at Cairns’ Cannon Park earlier this week during a jump-out.

Two Cairns-based trainers and a trackwork jockey were photographed and filmed, with eyewitnesses alleging the horse was hit with excessive force to the neck and head area.

QRIC Commissioner Ross Barnett said QRIC, the independent statutory body which oversees the integrity and welfare standards of racing animals and racing industry participants in Queensland, will open an inquiry on a date to be fixed into an alleged animal welfare incident at the Cairns Jockey Club during jump-outs this week.

The incident occurred earlier this week and CJC general manager John Cameron became aware of the video on Thursday night.

Cameron met with the two trainers that are under investigation on Friday morning.

“We have received information that a horse had been excessively hit with the whip and we are investigating that,” Cameron said.

“We have a video of that and that information has now been forwarded on to the stewards.

“Any accusations from the video are very minor, however, in respect if it is minor or not, all things need to be considered and QRIC will consider everything.

“From our club’s perspective, I am happy action has been taken and followed it up with QRIC.

“Our club does not want horses to be mistreated in any way.”

Guidelines around trainers using the water walker at Cannon Park as well as the barriers have recently been updated, Cameron says, with an eye to improving safety.

In his letter sent to Cairns trainers following the video emerging, Cameron reminded them extra care of the wellbeing and welfare of horses trained at Cannon Park was required.

“The use of blindfolds could also have a significant impact on the health and safety of all involved and they need to be used carefully,” he wrote.

“I wish to remind everyone of the importance of horses’ welfare.”