Poorly written rules lead to no consistency in enforcement.

[Chief Stipe]

Notice the definition(s) missing in these rules?

AMENDMENTS TO THE WHIP RULES (RULE 638(3)(c))

After very careful consideration, New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing has decided to make some changes to the Rules regarding the use of the whip.  These changes were initiated by the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities to try to achieve consistency with the use of the whip by Jockeys over the world.  As you will be aware, the use of the whip during a race is seen by many people as cruel and unless we take steps to change that perception we could face increasing opposition.  The changes to the Rules are for the welfare of the horse, to demonstrate that we are serious about caring for our horses.  The new Rules are intended to make sure that whips are not used in such a way that they cause unnecessary pain during a race.

The changes to the Rules will come into effect next Wednesday (12^th February).  These changes are:

• The whip must not be used if you are not in contention of running in the first five placings. – The whip should only be used to get the best out of your horse when in contention.  It is not a good look for horses out of contention to be getting hit with the whip.
• The whip must not be used on a horse’s flank. – The horse’s flank is a very sensitive area and getting hit there is painful.  This area must be avoided.
• The whip must not be used forward of the saddle whilst it is held in the forehand position. – A horse’s shoulder, neck and head are also sensitive areas and should not be hit with any force.  Tapping the shoulder using the whip in the downward position is ok.
• The whip must not be used in a manner which causes a welt and or injury. – Whips should be used for encouragement and not to cause injury.  Injuries and welts may be seen by spectators or on television and makes racing look bad.

In essence, most Jockeys will not have to make any changes to the way they use the whip currently, as it is not common for it to be used in a way which would breach the new Rules.  The new Rules are to show that there is no intention to use the whip irresponsibly.

The new Rules are not intended to collect more money in fines, the best outcome would be if no jockey was ever found guilty of breaking them.

The rule amendments will be published shortly and will be available on the LoveRacing website.

These are added to the existing rules, please check the rule book for all whip rules.

[curious]

Those aren't rules. They are notice of a change to them. What definitions are missing?

[Chief Stipe]

19 minutes ago, curious said:

Those aren't rules. They are notice of a change to them. What definitions are missing?

The main one that you keep referring to.  BTW at least I can still find my arse and elbow.

[Special Agent]

Another option used to fine or suspend and shown in the Stipes Reports is hitting a horse when clearly winning.

As for having no listed definition of the flank, I guess it is assumed as a licence holder you know where that part of the body is.

[Special Agent]

Just now, Special Agent said:

hitting a horse when clearly winning.

I think this is worse than hitting a horse when not in contention of running in the first five.  Not being in contention is a judgment call which could be based on a number of factors i.e. how does the horse feel, have you ridden the horse before, does it run on from back in the field, what is the start number in this campaign, how has the horse trained and eaten this week, is today's race the optimum distance, is the trainer trying different tactics etc.

A well trained horse with ability is a pleasure for a jockey to ride and may need little whipping.  For the others make sure you have a savvy jockey who knows how to hit, where to hit and how to count.

Is it really that hard?  There are official eyes, cameras and vets to enforce the rules.  If jockeys want to ride and be paid, abide by those rules, or suffer the consequences.