Tougher Penalties For Excessive Whip Use.

The frequency 'guideline' that stewards currently use to determine if a Jockey if too excessive with his whip use is to be removed. It will be replaced by strict and easily understood rules as to how many times the whip can be used in a race.

In two weeks time the new ruling will come into effect. It will mean that in a flat race the whip can be used a maximum of seven times while in a jump race the limit is set to eight times. Any rider deemed to be in excess of this will be dealt harsh penalties.

The new rulings are a result of a ten month review on the current system by the British Horseracing Authority and in general it is well received by the wider racing community.