Are the changes in racing whip rules good for horse welfare?

 previously experienced shoulder or collarbone injuries. Furthermore, the forehand whip position has been carried out for many years now in both flat and jump racing, any change in riding position or style is unlikely to be supported.

So, why are some Vet groups upset by this situation? 

It has been argued that when jockeys use their whips in the forehand position they can continue to ‘beat horses with strikes of the whip in the name of entertainment’. The use of a whip in a backhand position is often described as being less forceful; hence why some groups are now furious that this rule has not been imposed. The forefront of Veterinary professionals remains animal health and welfare and any change that suggests otherwise is not supported. 

You are probably asking, does continuing the forehand whip rule promote horse welfare? 

This is difficult to accurately ascertain. Additionally, if jockeys also utilise their whip in the backhand position incorrectly this could also have negative welfare implications. 

Here’s an interesting thought. The proposed backhand rule was stated in the whip consultation report (July 2022) and this report title includes the phrase ‘improving standards’. So, now that this rule has been revised does this suggest that the forehand rule is inferior and of a lower standard?

But while the forehand whip rule still remains, there are reductions in the number of permitted strikes during a race. And there are harsher consequences in place if this rule is breached. This change alone is a step to improving racing standards and horse welfare. So while it is less that it might have been, it is at least a step forward overall.

Conclusion

To conclude, the revised whip rule changes have not been fully supported by all Veterinary professionals and concerns for horse welfare still remains. I remain optimistic that BHA will continue to review standards to support the optimum health and welfare of our equine athletes.