29 September 2011 Whip Regulations: A Statement From The BHA Point-to-Point Executive
by The British Horseracing Authority
The Point-to-Point Executive at the British Horseracing Authority has released a statement in response to the publication of the recent Review of the use of the whip.
"Point-to-Pointing is to adopt similar measures as racing under Rules with regard to restrictions for responsible use of the Whip. The sport has been kept closely involved in the consultation process of the Review, and the implementation of the new approach to the whip's use under Rules shall be reflected in Point-to-Pointing in time for the 2011/12 season.
High standards of horse welfare and its close vigilance are a crucial priority in Point-to-Pointing, and the penalties for welfare related offences are already significant. The sport nurtures many riders that go on to ride under Rules, and therefore whip rules parity is vital in terms of educating riders as well as preventing future whip breaches by amateurs who also ride on the Racecourse.
The changes for use of the whip shall not only be limited in the same way as on the Racecourse, but a modified penalty structure issued for whip misdemeanours shall also reflect the severity with which the Authority views improper use.
The BHA shall be widely publicising the whip restrictions and associated penalty changes to participants ahead of the season and in the training days for Stewards attending seminars in October."
Freddy Arthur, Point-to-Point Executive, British Horseracing Authority
