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17 Oct 11
12:31
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Date Joined:
05 Jan 10
Confuseddotcom 
By MARCUS TOWNEND
The threat of disruptive protest action from jockeys remains an uncomfortable backdrop to Monday's talks with the BHA seeking a solution to the dispute over new whip rules.
The delegation of jockeys due to meet the BHA board includes AP McCoy, Ryan Moore and Richard Hughes, whose decision to quit at Kempton on Thursday in protest escalated the dispute.
The jockeys will present a revamped penalty system to the one introduced a week ago, which claimed the highest profile victim when Christophe Soumillon — who has threatened legal action — was stripped of his £55,000 winner’s percentage after he won on Cirrus Des Angles in Saturday’ s Champion Stakes at Ascot.
Jockeys have called off protests at Monday’s Flat meetings at Pontefract and Windsor but Racemail understands they will implement fresh plans for action if a solution cannot be found. There are also reports that even some of the BHA field officials and stewards are uncomfortable with the new rules.
Pressure is piling on key BHA figures, not least chairman Paul Roy who appeared to accept the bad timing of adopting new rules days before Saturday’s inaugural Qipco British Champions Day.
Roy said: ‘I would feel better if this had been introduced in the winter. I take responsibility for that, but a lot of senior trainers and jockeys were consulted.
‘Changes needed to be made but I regret the way things have panned out. I am willing to be criticised for being flexible. Margaret Thatcher used to have a way of negotiating. She just said no. But I am not like that.’
Soumillon, also banned for five days as he chases the French jockeys’ title, urged British jockeys to act — a rallying cry that over-shadowed Frankel’s super win in the Champion Stakes.
The ridiculous situation behind this whole episode is that the BHA and jockeys are singing from pretty similar hymn sheets.
Jockeys are prepared to accept the limit of seven strikes of the whip in Flat races and eight for the jumps but want the restriction where only five of that quota are allowed in the final furlong, or after the last fence, scrapped. It was a sixth hit in the last 220 yards that caused Soumillon to break the new rules, even though he kept within his race quota.
Racemail understands that the riders will propose a penalty system for minor breaches that starts at one day but doubles for subsequent infringements.
For a third and all subsequent offences a rider would still be stripped of his prize money and riding fee to clamp down on repeat offenders.
Senior jockey Steve Drowne, joint president of the Professional Jockeys Association, said: ‘The new punishments do not fit the crime. But if someone does hit a horse 10 or 11 times, we are saying throw the book at them.
‘What we are trying to avoid is the equivalent of doing 75mph in a 70 limit and automatically losing your licence for six months.
‘In similar racing situations, there is no intention to win at all cost, you have just gone one over by accident.’
Colleague Richard Hills said: ‘The rules should go back to what they were until they come up with a proper and final solution. They are killing this sport
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/racing/article-2049863/Horse-racing-jockeys-whips-warpath.html#ixzz1b2GekizQ
By MARCUS TOWNEND
The threat of disruptive protest action from jockeys remains an uncomfortable backdrop to Monday's talks with the BHA seeking a solution to the dispute over new whip rules.
The delegation of jockeys due to meet the BHA board includes AP McCoy, Ryan Moore and Richard Hughes, whose decision to quit at Kempton on Thursday in protest escalated the dispute.
The jockeys will present a revamped penalty system to the one introduced a week ago, which claimed the highest profile victim when Christophe Soumillon — who has threatened legal action — was stripped of his £55,000 winner’s percentage after he won on Cirrus Des Angles in Saturday’ s Champion Stakes at Ascot.
Jockeys have called off protests at Monday’s Flat meetings at Pontefract and Windsor but Racemail understands they will implement fresh plans for action if a solution cannot be found. There are also reports that even some of the BHA field officials and stewards are uncomfortable with the new rules.
Pressure is piling on key BHA figures, not least chairman Paul Roy who appeared to accept the bad timing of adopting new rules days before Saturday’s inaugural Qipco British Champions Day.
Roy said: ‘I would feel better if this had been introduced in the winter. I take responsibility for that, but a lot of senior trainers and jockeys were consulted.
‘Changes needed to be made but I regret the way things have panned out. I am willing to be criticised for being flexible. Margaret Thatcher used to have a way of negotiating. She just said no. But I am not like that.’
Soumillon, also banned for five days as he chases the French jockeys’ title, urged British jockeys to act — a rallying cry that over-shadowed Frankel’s super win in the Champion Stakes.
The ridiculous situation behind this whole episode is that the BHA and jockeys are singing from pretty similar hymn sheets.
Jockeys are prepared to accept the limit of seven strikes of the whip in Flat races and eight for the jumps but want the restriction where only five of that quota are allowed in the final furlong, or after the last fence, scrapped. It was a sixth hit in the last 220 yards that caused Soumillon to break the new rules, even though he kept within his race quota.
Racemail understands that the riders will propose a penalty system for minor breaches that starts at one day but doubles for subsequent infringements.
For a third and all subsequent offences a rider would still be stripped of his prize money and riding fee to clamp down on repeat offenders.
Senior jockey Steve Drowne, joint president of the Professional Jockeys Association, said: ‘The new punishments do not fit the crime. But if someone does hit a horse 10 or 11 times, we are saying throw the book at them.
‘What we are trying to avoid is the equivalent of doing 75mph in a 70 limit and automatically losing your licence for six months.
‘In similar racing situations, there is no intention to win at all cost, you have just gone one over by accident.’
Colleague Richard Hills said: ‘The rules should go back to what they were until they come up with a proper and final solution. They are killing this sport
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/racing/article-2049863/Horse-racing-jockeys-whips-warpath.html#ixzz1b2GekizQ
Show More
I'm sorry dod, did that one go above your head ?
Did you know Hopper Cavendish is actually female?.
Can't absolutely recall how Mark Johnston got there wee eck but I think that the Horsemen's Group are entitled to one place on the Board and they decided that MJ was the best person to represent their interests.
sportinglife.com
Representatives of the riding ranks still hope to come up with a revised solution to the new whip guidelines following the conclusion of a meeting with the board of the British Horseracing Authority.
New rules were introduced last Monday and although riders, trainers and officials were positive about the changes before their inception, the guidelines have caused much controversy since.
A number of jockeys have fallen foul of the new rules since they were introduced last Monday, with Richard Hughes pledging to hand in his riding licence after picking up his second suspension of the week at Kempton on Thursday.
The debate was thrust back into the spotlight at Ascot on Saturday after Christophe Soumillon was found to have hit Qipco Champion Stakes winner Cirrus Des Aigles six times in the final furlong - once more than permitted.
The furious Belgian ace was not only handed a five-day suspension but also forced to forfeit his considerable percentage of the prize-money and his riding fee.
Hughes, Tony McCoy, Ryan Moore and Frankie Dettori, as well as trainer John Gosden, joined Kevin Darley, chief executive of the Professional Jockeys Association, in a meeting with BHA officials in London today.
After a meeting which lasted roughly 90 minutes, Darley emerged satisfied that the jockeys had a chance to put forward their case.
"It's too early to say very much, but everything was very open," said Darley.
"We put our points across and hopefully we can come up with a resolution as soon as possible.
"It was great to have some jockeys there to put their point across about what happens when you are riding in a race.
"We put our points across and it's up to them to decide.
"If it's not favourable then we'll have to reconsider our position."
Darley added: "We put (our) points across very well, we'll see what come out of the meeting and what they decide.
"The BHA board and jockeys are trying to achieve the same objective in trying to get rules in place everyone is comfortable with.
"It was a good meeting, everyone was very open about what was discussed, hopefully we have done a good job and can resolve this situation as soon as possible.
"I think so (they will take jockey's concerns on board) and hope so."
A BHA authority representative said the panel were sitting down to discuss matters, and may be able to provide further comment later in the afternoon.
Darley later released a statement which read: "We had a productive meeting with the BHA board this afternoon.
"They listened to all the points that we made about the working of the new whip rules.
"It was very useful for the PJA to have senior Jockeys like AP McCoy, Frankie Dettori, Ryan Moore and Richard Hughes present because they were able to paint various different race-riding scenarios to the board members.
"We will now await the BHA coming back to us. We can then see where we stand because the jockeys as a group will have to find the rules workable."
Representatives of the riding ranks still hope to come up with a revised solution to the new whip guidelines following the conclusion of a meeting with the board of the British Horseracing Authority.
New rules were introduced last Monday and although riders, trainers and officials were positive about the changes before their inception, the guidelines have caused much controversy since.
A number of jockeys have fallen foul of the new rules since they were introduced last Monday, with Richard Hughes pledging to hand in his riding licence after picking up his second suspension of the week at Kempton on Thursday.
The debate was thrust back into the spotlight at Ascot on Saturday after Christophe Soumillon was found to have hit Qipco Champion Stakes winner Cirrus Des Aigles six times in the final furlong - once more than permitted.
The furious Belgian ace was not only handed a five-day suspension but also forced to forfeit his considerable percentage of the prize-money and his riding fee.
Hughes, Tony McCoy, Ryan Moore and Frankie Dettori, as well as trainer John Gosden, joined Kevin Darley, chief executive of the Professional Jockeys Association, in a meeting with BHA officials in London today.
After a meeting which lasted roughly 90 minutes, Darley emerged satisfied that the jockeys had a chance to put forward their case.
"It's too early to say very much, but everything was very open," said Darley.
"We put our points across and hopefully we can come up with a resolution as soon as possible.
"It was great to have some jockeys there to put their point across about what happens when you are riding in a race.
"We put our points across and it's up to them to decide.
"If it's not favourable then we'll have to reconsider our position."
Darley added: "We put (our) points across very well, we'll see what come out of the meeting and what they decide.
"The BHA board and jockeys are trying to achieve the same objective in trying to get rules in place everyone is comfortable with.
"It was a good meeting, everyone was very open about what was discussed, hopefully we have done a good job and can resolve this situation as soon as possible.
"I think so (they will take jockey's concerns on board) and hope so."
A BHA authority representative said the panel were sitting down to discuss matters, and may be able to provide further comment later in the afternoon.
Darley later released a statement which read: "We had a productive meeting with the BHA board this afternoon.
"They listened to all the points that we made about the working of the new whip rules.
"It was very useful for the PJA to have senior Jockeys like AP McCoy, Frankie Dettori, Ryan Moore and Richard Hughes present because they were able to paint various different race-riding scenarios to the board members.
"We will now await the BHA coming back to us. We can then see where we stand because the jockeys as a group will have to find the rules workable."
Darley`s statement is amazing. " It was great to have some jockeys there " What was he doing brfore,negotiating on his own ? The man is a disaster.
Mark "horse racing is not all about betting but all about me" Johnson.
"It was very useful for the PJA to have senior Jockeys like AP McCoy, Frankie Dettori, Ryan Moore and Richard Hughes present because they were able to paint various different race-riding scenarios to the board members" - beggars belief!
Seriously tho does that statement not prove why British Racing is the laughing stock of the world..I wouldn't be suprised if they had a video of My Little Pony and an abacus waiting on the table.
Definitely shows that the jockeys (PJA) are in as much disarray as the BHA
Darley didn't look very happy coming out of the meeting today, looks like these idiots BHA have dug their toes in
There have been comparisons drawn with speeding offences
If they insist on keeping the new rules perhaps they should have the same arrangement with a ban only after the third infringement
If they insist on keeping the new rules perhaps they should have the same arrangement with a ban only after the third infringement
let sjust cut off the head and start agian please all feel free to leave a comment on my brother gamblers thread.....
You reckon they are ok in that room?
I hope it isn't a suicide pact
I hope it isn't a suicide pact
On SkyNews in a couple of minutes at BHA head quarters
Sent out for another bottle of Pernod-Ricard Perrier-Jouet ...
chris cook
18 whip infractions in first week of new rules, which means we're on pace for about 900 per year, more than under old rules. Five more today
18 whip infractions in first week of new rules, which means we're on pace for about 900 per year, more than under old rules. Five more today
17 Oct 2011 17:55
Statement from the BHA Board Meeting
The Board of the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) today met with representatives of the Professional Jockeys Association (PJA) and listened to their proposals for adjustments to the new Rules and guidelines on the use of the whip in horseracing.
The Authority’s Review of the use of the whip in horseracing was undertaken over ten months by an expert working group involving widespread consultation and evidence gathering from stakeholders across the sport and more widely including animal welfare organisations and the general public.
The Board has today reiterated its endorsement of the principles behind the review. The new Rules, adopted by the Authority, received widespread support from across the industry.
Any change to regulations must be carefully considered and subject to due process. This means that appropriate evidence needs to be reviewed and there will need to be engagement with other relevant parties. The Board has directed the Review Group to undertake this process and report back by no later than the end of the week.
Until any changes are made, the current rules will continue to apply.
The Board would like to thank the PJA for taking the time to attend this meeting and for their constructive engagement and commitment to work for the best outcome for British Racing. The Board and Review group will continue to liaise with the PJA in the coming days.
Notes to Editors:
Because of the regulatory nature of this issue and the need to ensure due process is fairly conducted the Board will make no further comment on this process until the Review Group has reported back.
The initial Review document - Responsible Regulation: a Review of the use of the whip in Horseracing - can be found at this link: http://www.britishhorseracing.com/whip-review/
Members of the BHA Board are:
Paul Roy (Chairman)
Justin Wadham
John Bridgeman
Morag Gray
Ben Gunn
Nicholas Jones
Bill Farnsworth
Mark Johnston
For more information contact:
Paul Struthers
British Horseracing Authority
t:0207 152 0166
m:07966 590105
e: pstruthers@britishhorseracing.com
Statement from the BHA Board Meeting
The Board of the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) today met with representatives of the Professional Jockeys Association (PJA) and listened to their proposals for adjustments to the new Rules and guidelines on the use of the whip in horseracing.
The Authority’s Review of the use of the whip in horseracing was undertaken over ten months by an expert working group involving widespread consultation and evidence gathering from stakeholders across the sport and more widely including animal welfare organisations and the general public.
The Board has today reiterated its endorsement of the principles behind the review. The new Rules, adopted by the Authority, received widespread support from across the industry.
Any change to regulations must be carefully considered and subject to due process. This means that appropriate evidence needs to be reviewed and there will need to be engagement with other relevant parties. The Board has directed the Review Group to undertake this process and report back by no later than the end of the week.
Until any changes are made, the current rules will continue to apply.
The Board would like to thank the PJA for taking the time to attend this meeting and for their constructive engagement and commitment to work for the best outcome for British Racing. The Board and Review group will continue to liaise with the PJA in the coming days.
Notes to Editors:
Because of the regulatory nature of this issue and the need to ensure due process is fairly conducted the Board will make no further comment on this process until the Review Group has reported back.
The initial Review document - Responsible Regulation: a Review of the use of the whip in Horseracing - can be found at this link: http://www.britishhorseracing.com/whip-review/
Members of the BHA Board are:
Paul Roy (Chairman)
Justin Wadham
John Bridgeman
Morag Gray
Ben Gunn
Nicholas Jones
Bill Farnsworth
Mark Johnston
For more information contact:
Paul Struthers
British Horseracing Authority
t:0207 152 0166
m:07966 590105
e: pstruthers@britishhorseracing.com
So they are saying the current whip rules will remain in place until the end of the week when review panel will report back after consultations...Aye..Pull the udder one...Who the feck are they consulting??? Animal Aid?
It should now be taken out of their hands by a full scale strike..
Headless chickens I thought they done all the consultations BEFORE they brought in the whip ban
The jockeys should go on strike till saturday
Nothing will change regarding the on track rules NAP
The changes will be regarding the size of fine and possibly the length the ban
oh my days
The changes will be regarding the size of fine and possibly the length the ban
oh my days
Glad to see Eddie the Shoe agree with me 
Eddie Fremantle
Don't know the precise lie of the land but if I were a jock I'd be taking a holiday until Friday. No point in riding if rule may change.
Eddie Fremantle
Don't know the precise lie of the land but if I were a jock I'd be taking a holiday until Friday. No point in riding if rule may change.
I have e-mailed Struthers. I haven`t got AD`s c + ping skills but I kept it brief and mentioned " despair " " farce " " pass the parcel ". I`ll let you know if I get an answer.
Paul Roy" good time to introduce this in the winter" yes really great time with the mud flying and horses running in 3 mile chases you wonder if he knows anything about racing.
I bet there will be a lot of jockeys phoning in sick this week
Eve Johnson Houghton tweeted
So glad the BHA have a sense of urgency. Next they will be saying "don't want to have a knee jerk reaction...." They need to sort it now!
So glad the BHA have a sense of urgency. Next they will be saying "don't want to have a knee jerk reaction...." They need to sort it now!
If the jocks do not strike now, they are digging their own tombs...
Pinehurst Racing
BHA treats jockeys like kids,'You will obey' attitude is pathetic. Furlong rule absolutely mental,penalties are crazy.BHA out to kill racing
BHA treats jockeys like kids,'You will obey' attitude is pathetic. Furlong rule absolutely mental,penalties are crazy.BHA out to kill racing
Pinehurst Racing
Immediate indefinite strike needed. Trying to solve a problem that doesn’t exist, re-educate public not jockeys. RT and get behind it.
John Mulholland
Poor jockeys should go on strike. BHA make our boys look like apple. I'd rather jockeys trying hard to win rather than trying hard to count!
Immediate indefinite strike needed. Trying to solve a problem that doesn’t exist, re-educate public not jockeys. RT and get behind it.
John Mulholland
Poor jockeys should go on strike. BHA make our boys look like apple. I'd rather jockeys trying hard to win rather than trying hard to count!
The BBC were saying when showing live pictures of Richard Hughes on Saturday in the jockeys weighing room at Ascot that he was being fined for not taking his rides and that he hadn't actually physically handed in his licence or wouldn't even be allowed in the weighing room if he had.
I then found it quite amusing Rishi Persad asking Hayley Turner about what several jockeys are like in the weighing room and she gave a general answer but I was hoping she would say something like....
"Er I don't really know, I change in the ladies weighing room."
I then found it quite amusing Rishi Persad asking Hayley Turner about what several jockeys are like in the weighing room and she gave a general answer but I was hoping she would say something like....
"Er I don't really know, I change in the ladies weighing room."
I wonder is Paul Roy really an Animal Aid member who secretly infiltrated the BHA. It seems his sole aim to finish off British Horse Racing for ever.
Donald Mccain
Surprise surprise no decision today!
Surprise surprise no decision today!
martin lane to micky fitz. joke and extremely unfair! And You'd be hopin they will squash all the current bans or at least reinstate the prize money and fee
what does Paul Roy do for a real job? Are they as badly managed as the BHA?
Nick Luck
The review will be reviewed this week; with the findings of the review of the review to be reviewed on Friday. Ok?
The review will be reviewed this week; with the findings of the review of the review to be reviewed on Friday. Ok?
presumably he plays golf all day and is not actually entrusted with making any business decisions?
Adrian Nicholls
Can I now go on the dole now I am banned and they took my money o yea and were does that go #mustbeneverneverland
Can I now go on the dole now I am banned and they took my money o yea and were does that go #mustbeneverneverland
martin lane
When the likes of Joe Fanning are getting done for the whip you know you've serious issues!!!
When the likes of Joe Fanning are getting done for the whip you know you've serious issues!!!
pedrobob 17 Oct 11 19:12
what does Paul Roy do for a real job? Are they as badly managed as the BHA?
Stake & Chips 17 Oct 11 19:13
I think he is a merchant banker,pedrobob.
----------------------------------------
LOL
what does Paul Roy do for a real job? Are they as badly managed as the BHA?
Stake & Chips 17 Oct 11 19:13
I think he is a merchant banker,pedrobob.
----------------------------------------
LOL
Claire Balding '1furlong limit is a mistake & penalties are extreme. Fine could be a precentage of prize money for owner, trainer & jockey, not just jock
David Johnson
No mention of the whip review on Channel 4 News. Surprising really seeing as the changes have been made for the general public
No mention of the whip review on Channel 4 News. Surprising really seeing as the changes have been made for the general public
What the fk was going on at the BHA meeting between 12.30pm and 6.30pm
Richie Killoran
rumour has it that they there are putting up an overhead sign like on the motorway, at the 1furlong pole with a flashing 5!
rumour has it that they there are putting up an overhead sign like on the motorway, at the 1furlong pole with a flashing 5!
Kim Bailey
Perhaps the review will suggest a large white line across the course a furlong from the winning post?
Perhaps the review will suggest a large white line across the course a furlong from the winning post?
willy_twiston Willy Twiston-davies Bad news now having an operation tomorrow on my collarbone!!! I'm a very p*ssed off young man!! #gutted
Anaglogs Daughter Joined: 05 Jan 10
Replies: 12882 17 Oct 11 19:29
What the fk was going on at the BHA meeting between 12.30pm and 6.30pm
Minute 4.11.9.b - at 3.08pm Johnston interrupted the meeting to ask for the 3.10 Pontefract to be relayed, assuring the other members of the board that his stable jockey would win the race and they should avail themselves of suitable odds with their commission agent.
When asked how he knew this, Johnston advised that his jock would f**k the rules to get this horse to win.
Replies: 12882 17 Oct 11 19:29
What the fk was going on at the BHA meeting between 12.30pm and 6.30pm
Minute 4.11.9.b - at 3.08pm Johnston interrupted the meeting to ask for the 3.10 Pontefract to be relayed, assuring the other members of the board that his stable jockey would win the race and they should avail themselves of suitable odds with their commission agent.
When asked how he knew this, Johnston advised that his jock would f**k the rules to get this horse to win.
is Roy going to get fined for being so incompetent and failing to do his job properly?
Wilson Renwick
Animal Aid must b lovin this. They do all they can to ruin our sport. At the moment that's nothing, as the BHA are doing it for them.
Animal Aid must b lovin this. They do all they can to ruin our sport. At the moment that's nothing, as the BHA are doing it for them.
David Crosse No consistence in BHA stewarding ,, 2 Jockeys last week hit 6 times after da last and didn't get called in!!!!
Gay Kelleway Racing
Didn't see any happy jockeys at Windsor today ! Very subdued ..... We are not in a good place in British racing at present .....
Didn't see any happy jockeys at Windsor today ! Very subdued ..... We are not in a good place in British racing at present .....
Christophe Soumillon has lodged an appeal to the British Horseracing Authority against punishments handed out to him at Ascot on Saturday.
The French-based rider won the Qipco Champion Stakes, the richest race ever run in Britain, on Cirrus Des Aigles, but was found in breach of new whip rules in that he hit his mount six times in the final furlong.
Soumillon was given a five-day suspension and also forfeited his riding fee and percentage of prize-money, which totalled in excess of £50,000.
The Belgian jockey is being represented by Christopher Stewart-Moore, who lodged the appeal on his behalf.
Soumillon's British agent Shippy Ellis told Press Association Sport that the appeal had been made "reluctantly" by the rider.
Ellis added: "He has received widespread support from around the world, particularly from France, Canada and Hong Kong."
The French-based rider won the Qipco Champion Stakes, the richest race ever run in Britain, on Cirrus Des Aigles, but was found in breach of new whip rules in that he hit his mount six times in the final furlong.
Soumillon was given a five-day suspension and also forfeited his riding fee and percentage of prize-money, which totalled in excess of £50,000.
The Belgian jockey is being represented by Christopher Stewart-Moore, who lodged the appeal on his behalf.
Soumillon's British agent Shippy Ellis told Press Association Sport that the appeal had been made "reluctantly" by the rider.
Ellis added: "He has received widespread support from around the world, particularly from France, Canada and Hong Kong."
Paul Struthers on twitter about where are the Jockeys fines gone:
BHA has said from day one and I've said numerous times on here, it sits separately, untouched in escrow in a 3rd party account until decided how best to use
BHA has said from day one and I've said numerous times on here, it sits separately, untouched in escrow in a 3rd party account until decided how best to use
Anaglogs Daughter Joined: 05 Jan 10
Replies: 12889 17 Oct 11 20:00
Wilson Renwick
Animal Aid must b lovin this. They do all they can to ruin our sport. At the moment that's nothing, as the BHA are doing it for them
OMFG.......perhaps its the jockeys that have contributed to this as well Renwick.....
http://www.animalaid.org.uk/h/n/NEWS/news_horse/ALL/2431//
Replies: 12889 17 Oct 11 20:00
Wilson Renwick
Animal Aid must b lovin this. They do all they can to ruin our sport. At the moment that's nothing, as the BHA are doing it for them
OMFG.......perhaps its the jockeys that have contributed to this as well Renwick.....
http://www.animalaid.org.uk/h/n/NEWS/news_horse/ALL/2431//
Now i have seen it all this is the BHA COMMITEE..It'll take you a while to work it out it's in PDF form so it might slow your p.c.
http://bit.ly/qxyJYa
it's in PDF form so it might slow your p.c.http://bit.ly/qxyJYa
Possible strike action rumored for next Mondays meetings AT Southwell, Leicester and Redcar.
The guys in the whip guidelines committee have done such a "good job" that the rest of them will soon be out of a job. Talk about destroying a billion pound industry...all on the whim of the guy at the top who thought it would be great idea to do it now!
Anaglogs Daughter Joined: 05 Jan 10
Replies: 12892 17 Oct 11 20:35
Paul Struthers on twitter about where are the Jockeys fines gone:
BHA has said from day one and I've said numerous times on here, it sits separately, untouched in escrow in a 3rd party account until decided how best to use
Is that a joke AD or for real?
You mean they introduced rules 6 days before AScot when it was likely someone would incur a hefty fine?
And they didn't know what they were to going to do with the money?
Have they set up another think tank yet to decide what to do with the money or will that be another 10 month consultation job?
Replies: 12892 17 Oct 11 20:35
Paul Struthers on twitter about where are the Jockeys fines gone:
BHA has said from day one and I've said numerous times on here, it sits separately, untouched in escrow in a 3rd party account until decided how best to use
Is that a joke AD or for real?
You mean they introduced rules 6 days before AScot when it was likely someone would incur a hefty fine?
And they didn't know what they were to going to do with the money?
Have they set up another think tank yet to decide what to do with the money or will that be another 10 month consultation job?
BHA_HighHolborn BHA
What's all the fuss about? Everything is great. Nothing to see here. Go away....shoo.
What's all the fuss about? Everything is great. Nothing to see here. Go away....shoo.
BHA
@BHA_HighHolborn London...various bars
Often misunderstood, we live by the creed To serve (ourselves) & protect (our friends - Nicky will verify that!). Do NOT question us - we are NEVER wrong.
@BHA_HighHolborn London...various bars
Often misunderstood, we live by the creed To serve (ourselves) & protect (our friends - Nicky will verify that!). Do NOT question us - we are NEVER wrong.
Whip row grows as new rules remain and more jockeys are banned
• Changes to rules must be carefully considered, says BHA
• Time running out for solution, jockeys' official warns
Greg Wood
guardian.co.uk, Monday 17 October 2011
The British Horseracing Authority appeared to shift the focus back on to the country's jockeys on Monday when it said that strict new rules on the use of the whip, which have produced a series of bans and fines since their introduction a week ago, will remain in place while the Review Group which recommended the changes considers possible amendments to the regulations.
The BHA met jockeys' representatives at its High Holborn offices on Monday, a meeting which lasted less than two hours, and later issued a statement which said that it expected its Review Group to report back by the end of the week on evidence that might support changes to the new rules.
The statement said that the BHA board had "listened to … proposals for adjustments to the new rules and guidelines on the use of the whip in horseracing". It stressed that the new rules were introduced following a review "undertaken over 10 months by an expert working group involving widespread consultation and evidence-gathering from stakeholders across the sport", and that "any change to regulations must be carefully considered".
As a result, the BHA said, "appropriate evidence needs to be reviewed and there will need to be engagement with other relevant parties. The board has directed the Review Group to undertake this process and report back by no later than the end of the week."
It remains to be seen whether this will satisfy the jockeys after an afternoon on which five more riders were banned for at least five days, at meetings which took place only after a threat of strike action by jockeys was averted on Friday when the BHA agreed to the meeting on Monday.
Kevin Darley, the Professional Jockeys' Association chief executive, was joined by the riders Frankie Dettori, Tony McCoy, Richard Hughes and Ryan Moore as he met senior racing administrators following a scheduled meeting of the BHA's board.
Darley said later: "We will continue to work closely with the British Horseracing Authority in coming days to bring this matter to a satisfactory conclusion. We will await the BHA's response to the very realistic and sensible proposals that the jockeys made to the authority today.
"However, time is pressing and amendments to the new rules that jockeys believe are workable need to be adopted very soon. As far as jockeys are concerned the current situation cannot continue, and we have made that clear to the BHA. A resolution to this issue must be found."
The list of jockeys facing significant bans increased steadily through Monday afternoon, when the jockeys found in breach of the whip rules included Kieren Fox, who was the first rider to be banned under the regulations following their introduction last week.
Fox was banned for 15 days for hitting his mount 11 times when winning a race at Salisbury on 10 October, and was banned for a further 10 days for his latest offence, on Push Me in a handicap at Windsor.
The other riders who were banned on Monday were Micky Fenton (seven days), Adrian Nicholls (five days) and Joe Fanning (five days), who were all found in breach of the rules at Pontefract, and the amateur jumps jockey Jack Quinlan, who received seven days for excessive use of the whip at Plumpton.
Fanning, who said later that the ban was only his third for a whip offence in a 21-year career, was suspended for striking his mount six times inside the final furlong, which is one more than the permitted number of strikes although fewer than the seven that are allowed through the course of an entire race. "I misjudged it," Fanning said afterwards. "I thought the first crack I gave him was outside the furlong pole. I'd used my quota, so I put my stick down near the line."
Christophe Soumillon has confirmed he will appeal against the ruling that he was in breach of the new whip rules when winning the Champion Stakes at Ascot on Saturday, as a result of which he forfeited his £52,000 share of the prize money. He was adjudged to have hit his mount, Cirrus Des Aigles, six times inside the final furlong but later complained that he had little chance of spotting the furlong pole amid the sponsor's various banners.
Following the news of the BHA review, there was speculation that next Monday's meetings, when racing is scheduled at Southwell, Leicester and Redcar, could become targets for possible strike action.
• Changes to rules must be carefully considered, says BHA
• Time running out for solution, jockeys' official warns
Greg Wood
guardian.co.uk, Monday 17 October 2011
The British Horseracing Authority appeared to shift the focus back on to the country's jockeys on Monday when it said that strict new rules on the use of the whip, which have produced a series of bans and fines since their introduction a week ago, will remain in place while the Review Group which recommended the changes considers possible amendments to the regulations.
The BHA met jockeys' representatives at its High Holborn offices on Monday, a meeting which lasted less than two hours, and later issued a statement which said that it expected its Review Group to report back by the end of the week on evidence that might support changes to the new rules.
The statement said that the BHA board had "listened to … proposals for adjustments to the new rules and guidelines on the use of the whip in horseracing". It stressed that the new rules were introduced following a review "undertaken over 10 months by an expert working group involving widespread consultation and evidence-gathering from stakeholders across the sport", and that "any change to regulations must be carefully considered".
As a result, the BHA said, "appropriate evidence needs to be reviewed and there will need to be engagement with other relevant parties. The board has directed the Review Group to undertake this process and report back by no later than the end of the week."
It remains to be seen whether this will satisfy the jockeys after an afternoon on which five more riders were banned for at least five days, at meetings which took place only after a threat of strike action by jockeys was averted on Friday when the BHA agreed to the meeting on Monday.
Kevin Darley, the Professional Jockeys' Association chief executive, was joined by the riders Frankie Dettori, Tony McCoy, Richard Hughes and Ryan Moore as he met senior racing administrators following a scheduled meeting of the BHA's board.
Darley said later: "We will continue to work closely with the British Horseracing Authority in coming days to bring this matter to a satisfactory conclusion. We will await the BHA's response to the very realistic and sensible proposals that the jockeys made to the authority today.
"However, time is pressing and amendments to the new rules that jockeys believe are workable need to be adopted very soon. As far as jockeys are concerned the current situation cannot continue, and we have made that clear to the BHA. A resolution to this issue must be found."
The list of jockeys facing significant bans increased steadily through Monday afternoon, when the jockeys found in breach of the whip rules included Kieren Fox, who was the first rider to be banned under the regulations following their introduction last week.
Fox was banned for 15 days for hitting his mount 11 times when winning a race at Salisbury on 10 October, and was banned for a further 10 days for his latest offence, on Push Me in a handicap at Windsor.
The other riders who were banned on Monday were Micky Fenton (seven days), Adrian Nicholls (five days) and Joe Fanning (five days), who were all found in breach of the rules at Pontefract, and the amateur jumps jockey Jack Quinlan, who received seven days for excessive use of the whip at Plumpton.
Fanning, who said later that the ban was only his third for a whip offence in a 21-year career, was suspended for striking his mount six times inside the final furlong, which is one more than the permitted number of strikes although fewer than the seven that are allowed through the course of an entire race. "I misjudged it," Fanning said afterwards. "I thought the first crack I gave him was outside the furlong pole. I'd used my quota, so I put my stick down near the line."
Christophe Soumillon has confirmed he will appeal against the ruling that he was in breach of the new whip rules when winning the Champion Stakes at Ascot on Saturday, as a result of which he forfeited his £52,000 share of the prize money. He was adjudged to have hit his mount, Cirrus Des Aigles, six times inside the final furlong but later complained that he had little chance of spotting the furlong pole amid the sponsor's various banners.
Following the news of the BHA review, there was speculation that next Monday's meetings, when racing is scheduled at Southwell, Leicester and Redcar, could become targets for possible strike action.
Anyone want to put a fixture list together because it seems the BHA aren't able to.
If by the winter he means the AW then that would have made more sense in some ways for flat racing at least and if the odd jockey lost their prize money percentage of a £1800 to £2000 race then that's one thing, but to bring it in during the week of the big Ascot meeting and risk a jockey losing £50k was sheer stupidity......plenty of jockeys won't win that much in prize money throughout the whole season!
It would also have given those who rode on the AW a chance to get used to the new rules under a low profile so that by the time the bigger names came back, it was generally in use and they would have to adapt but could even do so at the start of the new turf season but again under a low profile.
It would also have given those who rode on the AW a chance to get used to the new rules under a low profile so that by the time the bigger names came back, it was generally in use and they would have to adapt but could even do so at the start of the new turf season but again under a low profile.
I think the best idea I read on here was to paint a thick white line across the track at the furlong pole. It seems that everyone agrees that the rules are great - its just that its hard for the jockeys to know when they go past the furlong marker at race speed.
it would be irresponsible to the horses to draw/paint or put down any artificial markers across the track.
The BHA are going to pay the Review group £10'000's this week to modify the new rules in 2 ways:
1. remove the final furlong max count
2. reduce the financial penalty to a jockey for winning a race
possibly an increase in the 8 strikes alllowed to jump jocks and also clarify a shocking omission in their previous changes - what happens to all the money they collect in fines
That took all of 15 seconds to write and very little thought.
Paul Roy is presiding over another joke of a corporate bureacuracy who have shown themselves to be incompetents of the highest order.
As Chairman, he failed in his duty to all stakeholders as he calls them, to provide leadership. With such massive changes in the rules, whether you liked them or not, the one thing he personally as Chairman should have ensured happen was that the changes were properly tested or trialled before implementation.
Instead, he allowed untrialled changes to be brought in the week of the biggest day in British Racing.
Worst of all, his embarassing exit from the BHA yesterday where he refused to face the media and pathetic interview with Nick Luck on Saturday shows he believes he is accountable to no-one and has a disdain and utter contempt for anyone who dares to challenge him.
The BHA are going to pay the Review group £10'000's this week to modify the new rules in 2 ways:
1. remove the final furlong max count
2. reduce the financial penalty to a jockey for winning a race
possibly an increase in the 8 strikes alllowed to jump jocks and also clarify a shocking omission in their previous changes - what happens to all the money they collect in fines
That took all of 15 seconds to write and very little thought.
Paul Roy is presiding over another joke of a corporate bureacuracy who have shown themselves to be incompetents of the highest order.
As Chairman, he failed in his duty to all stakeholders as he calls them, to provide leadership. With such massive changes in the rules, whether you liked them or not, the one thing he personally as Chairman should have ensured happen was that the changes were properly tested or trialled before implementation.
Instead, he allowed untrialled changes to be brought in the week of the biggest day in British Racing.
Worst of all, his embarassing exit from the BHA yesterday where he refused to face the media and pathetic interview with Nick Luck on Saturday shows he believes he is accountable to no-one and has a disdain and utter contempt for anyone who dares to challenge him.
it would be irresponsible to the horses to draw/paint or put down any artificial markers across the track.
Are you sure nothing can be done in this area? They go over a covered Wilson Avenue at Brighton Racecourse no problem which is 'artificial' so it is possible with a little thought. If you read the quotes from the complaining jockeys it appears to be not knowing the location of the furlong marker is their main problem. They seem to agree there should be limit on the number of hits they should be allowed to inflict on the horses.
Are you sure nothing can be done in this area? They go over a covered Wilson Avenue at Brighton Racecourse no problem which is 'artificial' so it is possible with a little thought. If you read the quotes from the complaining jockeys it appears to be not knowing the location of the furlong marker is their main problem. They seem to agree there should be limit on the number of hits they should be allowed to inflict on the horses.
Even if there are clearer markings at the final furlong it still doesn't help the jockeys keep track of how many slaps of the whip they have used if during earlier parts of the race they have had to give their horse a few. Say a jockey has already given 2-3 before going passed the winning post for the first time, are they really going to be keeping the remaining number in their head for the rest of the race despite having a dozen other things to concentrate on that involves race riding and riding a finish?
that is true, frog, but horses jump paths, roads, shadows, lines, pieces of paper etc all the time. Anything that is unusual to the layout of the surface that they expect to see in front of them.
No one has yet come up with an explanation for why horses hang suddenly or veer across the track just yards from the winning line, though thinking of that, seems to have happened far less this year compared to the spate of incidents that were ocurring over a year ago.
No one has yet come up with an explanation for why horses hang suddenly or veer across the track just yards from the winning line, though thinking of that, seems to have happened far less this year compared to the spate of incidents that were ocurring over a year ago.
At Epsom they cross the road at the bottom of tattenham corner, and on the 5 furlongs course they cross a road before that.
I would have thought a broken white line marked with well spaced dots would be fine.
How a jockey riding at speed in the middle of the field in the Cambridgeshire is expected to judge the furlong pole accurately is amazing. But an extra strike 5 yards inside when you think you are 5 yards outside equals suspension and a possible 5k ban.
I would have thought a broken white line marked with well spaced dots would be fine.
How a jockey riding at speed in the middle of the field in the Cambridgeshire is expected to judge the furlong pole accurately is amazing. But an extra strike 5 yards inside when you think you are 5 yards outside equals suspension and a possible 5k ban.
Cathy Gannon
Shocking we are probably the worst payed sport yet we risk are lives every day and then Bha taking away are skills it's like a factory job
Ch4 Jim McGrath
Final furlong marker now crucial to riders' careers. Who/what is assessing where this lies? It IS being measured to 'nth, no room for ANY error?
Fran Ferris
I'd love to be able to hit a horse once
Shocking we are probably the worst payed sport yet we risk are lives every day and then Bha taking away are skills it's like a factory job
Ch4 Jim McGrath
Final furlong marker now crucial to riders' careers. Who/what is assessing where this lies? It IS being measured to 'nth, no room for ANY error?
Fran Ferris
I'd love to be able to hit a horse once
In jump racing is it after the last fence? If thats the case have their been less problems over jumps relative to the number of rides in the last week?
The run in on the hurdles course at Newton Abbot is for much of their season only 100 yds. When they re-site the last hurdle to allow the ground to recover it can be nearly 2 furlongs.
The run in from the last fence at PLumpton is about a 5th of that on the National course at Aintree.
The jumping whip guidlines are far more of a joke than the flat ones.
The run in from the last fence at PLumpton is about a 5th of that on the National course at Aintree.
The jumping whip guidlines are far more of a joke than the flat ones.
that's why they will remove the "final furlong / after the last restriction" on Friday.
The max limit will be kept in place, though surely McCoy will have argued for having a higher limit for jumps and definitely for 3m+ races
The max limit will be kept in place, though surely McCoy will have argued for having a higher limit for jumps and definitely for 3m+ races
Stop horsing around with the sport of kings
Cack-handed attempts to solve the whipping row have left the horse-racing world in disarray.
By Jim White
telegraph.co.uk
Last Saturday could have been the day that reinvigorated British racing’s box-office appeal. In the midst of a relentless downturn, the Champions Day at Ascot offered an enticing menu to enthusiast and newcomer alike. There was Frankel, the superstar horse showing off his galloping finish.
There was a bumper crowd basking in the autumn sun. There was enough prize money to resolve the eurozone debt crisis. In all, the perfect climax to the flat-racing season. Three days on, the sport should be preening itself, purring about the positive image of a robust, confident, growing business.
Instead, it has behaved like a favourite falling at the first. Its workers have turned militant, a leading jockey is preparing to sue the governing body and another has walked away from the sport entirely, saying he no longer wishes to participate in an activity as hopelessly, haplessly dysfunctional as this.
And all over an argument about the sport’s least marketable issue: how many times a jockey can strike a horse with a whip.
It seems a simple enough question: does whipping cause an animal distress? For the casual observer, a jockey heavy-handedly whacking his horse’s hindquarters can be a disturbing sight.
For those who nurture and love thoroughbreds, however, there is no such worry. Modern whips, they insist, are designed to employ sound, not pain, to cajole and steer. These days no animal is hurt in the making of a champion.
You might think the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) could offer definitive guidance here. Instead, racing’s administrators appear traumatised by the issue, incapable of coherent thought, never mind action. Driven by fear of bad publicity, their very solution has threatened to bury their own sport under a drift of negativity.
The BHA’s whip issue began at the Grand National. Every year millions tune in to the scramble round Aintree, including some who find racing abhorrent. And this year the likes of the charity Animal Aid, which has long had a beef about the race, were gifted a publicity godsend.
Already two horses had been destroyed after falling over the course’s vertiginous jumps, when the jockey Jason Maguire was seen thrashing the winner Ballabriggs over the line. At the point of victory, Ballabriggs looked befuddled, tottering about like an over-refreshed punter in the Aintree stands.
Never mind that the race vet pointed out that the hot weather had dehydrated the horse, for Animal Aid the footage painted an unequivocal picture: jockey whacks mount to point of collapse. Subsequently, the BHA received about 100 letters of complaint, to which it responded like a classic British sporting administration: it panicked. Instead of either banning or defending the practice, it fudged.
Laws were introduced on how many times a horse could be struck, restricting jockeys to seven uses of the whip in a race, including a maximum of five in the last furlong. Furthermore, the BHA chose to introduce the ruling – and the draconian fines for those who broke it – without a trial period. And they did so last week, just before the season’s finale.
Immediately, the jockeys pointed out it was unworkable. Who, in the harem-scarem dash for the line, can spot the post marking the start of the final furlong?
Far better to have a single restriction across the whole race. Besides, even as a PR exercise it was flawed: it is the last few yards that get televised on the news, so those with a gripe against the sport would still see horses being hit frequently in the run-in.
A compromise so weak-kneed as to be counter-productive, all it did was add confusion – as was proved when the French jockey Christoph Soumillon had his £50,000 winning cheque withheld on Saturday after stewards claimed he hit his horse six times in the final furlong rather than the statutory five.
So furious is Soumillon, who claims the furlong marker post was obscured by an advertising hoarding, he is taking advice on suing the BHA.
Instead of ameliorating the problem, the BHA’s actions have advertised it. Suddenly those who had not even considered the issue have been made aware that horses get hit during a race.
It doesn’t matter how many – or how few – times they are struck, the fact they are being whacked at all will upset the delicate sensibilities of the British animal lover. As policy, it was a bit like Ed Miliband announcing that a future Labour government would restrict annual university fees to £6,000 instead of £9,000: if you are against the principle, you will not be impressed by a restriction on amounts.
For those involved in the grandest of leisure pursuits, it has critically undermined morale. After threatening strike action, leading jockeys met with the governing body yesterday demanding common sense.
For veteran rider Richard Hughes, however, it is too late. He announced ahead of the Champions Day that he no longer wishes to ride under these conditions. Forcing a much-loved practitioner from the saddle at the very point you should be celebrating a new chapter: as a symbol of a sport at war with itself, it tells you all you need to know
Cack-handed attempts to solve the whipping row have left the horse-racing world in disarray.
By Jim White
telegraph.co.uk
Last Saturday could have been the day that reinvigorated British racing’s box-office appeal. In the midst of a relentless downturn, the Champions Day at Ascot offered an enticing menu to enthusiast and newcomer alike. There was Frankel, the superstar horse showing off his galloping finish.
There was a bumper crowd basking in the autumn sun. There was enough prize money to resolve the eurozone debt crisis. In all, the perfect climax to the flat-racing season. Three days on, the sport should be preening itself, purring about the positive image of a robust, confident, growing business.
Instead, it has behaved like a favourite falling at the first. Its workers have turned militant, a leading jockey is preparing to sue the governing body and another has walked away from the sport entirely, saying he no longer wishes to participate in an activity as hopelessly, haplessly dysfunctional as this.
And all over an argument about the sport’s least marketable issue: how many times a jockey can strike a horse with a whip.
It seems a simple enough question: does whipping cause an animal distress? For the casual observer, a jockey heavy-handedly whacking his horse’s hindquarters can be a disturbing sight.
For those who nurture and love thoroughbreds, however, there is no such worry. Modern whips, they insist, are designed to employ sound, not pain, to cajole and steer. These days no animal is hurt in the making of a champion.
You might think the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) could offer definitive guidance here. Instead, racing’s administrators appear traumatised by the issue, incapable of coherent thought, never mind action. Driven by fear of bad publicity, their very solution has threatened to bury their own sport under a drift of negativity.
The BHA’s whip issue began at the Grand National. Every year millions tune in to the scramble round Aintree, including some who find racing abhorrent. And this year the likes of the charity Animal Aid, which has long had a beef about the race, were gifted a publicity godsend.
Already two horses had been destroyed after falling over the course’s vertiginous jumps, when the jockey Jason Maguire was seen thrashing the winner Ballabriggs over the line. At the point of victory, Ballabriggs looked befuddled, tottering about like an over-refreshed punter in the Aintree stands.
Never mind that the race vet pointed out that the hot weather had dehydrated the horse, for Animal Aid the footage painted an unequivocal picture: jockey whacks mount to point of collapse. Subsequently, the BHA received about 100 letters of complaint, to which it responded like a classic British sporting administration: it panicked. Instead of either banning or defending the practice, it fudged.
Laws were introduced on how many times a horse could be struck, restricting jockeys to seven uses of the whip in a race, including a maximum of five in the last furlong. Furthermore, the BHA chose to introduce the ruling – and the draconian fines for those who broke it – without a trial period. And they did so last week, just before the season’s finale.
Immediately, the jockeys pointed out it was unworkable. Who, in the harem-scarem dash for the line, can spot the post marking the start of the final furlong?
Far better to have a single restriction across the whole race. Besides, even as a PR exercise it was flawed: it is the last few yards that get televised on the news, so those with a gripe against the sport would still see horses being hit frequently in the run-in.
A compromise so weak-kneed as to be counter-productive, all it did was add confusion – as was proved when the French jockey Christoph Soumillon had his £50,000 winning cheque withheld on Saturday after stewards claimed he hit his horse six times in the final furlong rather than the statutory five.
So furious is Soumillon, who claims the furlong marker post was obscured by an advertising hoarding, he is taking advice on suing the BHA.
Instead of ameliorating the problem, the BHA’s actions have advertised it. Suddenly those who had not even considered the issue have been made aware that horses get hit during a race.
It doesn’t matter how many – or how few – times they are struck, the fact they are being whacked at all will upset the delicate sensibilities of the British animal lover. As policy, it was a bit like Ed Miliband announcing that a future Labour government would restrict annual university fees to £6,000 instead of £9,000: if you are against the principle, you will not be impressed by a restriction on amounts.
For those involved in the grandest of leisure pursuits, it has critically undermined morale. After threatening strike action, leading jockeys met with the governing body yesterday demanding common sense.
For veteran rider Richard Hughes, however, it is too late. He announced ahead of the Champions Day that he no longer wishes to ride under these conditions. Forcing a much-loved practitioner from the saddle at the very point you should be celebrating a new chapter: as a symbol of a sport at war with itself, it tells you all you need to know
Check Mate for BHA?
http://boyciesblog.wordpress.com/
http://boyciesblog.wordpress.com/
There are 3 certainties in life, Death, Taxes and the BHA to feck up racing....Sorry make that 4, Death,taxes,BHA to feck up racing and Frankel.
A section of the above from Boycies blog
Donald McCain has already expressed concern that this may be happening and I think he’s certain to be proved right. Horses that could get into contention in races won’t. Some will argue that this is fine as we’ll still have a winner but no sport can tolerate a situation where there is doubt as to whether the winner was the best. I’ve already seen jockeys give up after one or two smacks on horses with ground to make on the leaders. Some of these horses could go on to be competitive in their races if their jockeys were empowered to ask their horses for full extension and effort. The new rules will prevent this. I’ll say it now so as not to be accused of aftertiming. The new whip rules do not allow jump jockeys sufficient leeway for all types of horses in all types of races. Once jockeys and trainers realise this they too will want a crisis meeting and they too will seek changes to the rules.
Many scoffed when I described the initial ‘kite flying’ by certain parties regarding the whip as ‘reckless and dangerous’. Events of this week have brought into focus how quickly a few wrong moves can propel us towards an endgame that a lack of foresight and vision failed to anticipate. That the Racing Post and colleagues like John McCrirrick have fuelled a fire which could very easily become an inferno if the wind changes is deeply regrettable.
The premature introduction of ill conceived rules has painted the BHA into a corner that is now very difficult for them to exit. Stick to their guns and the sports participants and fans will be in revolt. Change their stance and the anti racing brigade will claim the BHA lacks the will to follow its own advice. All is not lost though. The BHA’s own review confirmed that the existing rules were doing an excellent job in lots of ways. Here’s a few facts.
Less than one hundredth of all rides resulted in a breach of the old rules. That’s considerably less than one a meeting from all the jockeys on all the horses in all the races. Less than on fiftieth of one percent of all rides resulted in any kind of visible mark at all upon any horse. The number of serious injuries caused by the air cushioned stick under the old guidelines over the last few years? Precisely zero. How many breaches of the rules attract widespread comment? One or two a year? That’s somewhere between one five hundredth and one thousandth of one per cent of rides.
As for public opinion the BHA’s own research shows that a little education goes a long way and can turn a majority of anti’s into a minority with a few simple pointers. As for worries about the impact on public opinion of the Grand National, didn’t AP McCoy win Sports Personality of the Year in a landslide after passing the line in front in that very race with his whip held in the air?
There is still time to do the right thing. It’s now a hundred times harder than it was a week ago but good leadership – real leadership – is about doing what’s right. Even when it’s hard. t’s not quite a case of four more days to save the world but it is to be hoped that real change, justified change, rather than cosmetic change could occur this week. The good news is that the most important stat of all makes a u turn not just possible but justifiable. The BHA can accurately state that an arbitrary reduction in the number of strokes, even when coupled with swingeing sanctions, actually resulted in the number of breaches going up. Your move BHA.
Good piece..
Donald McCain has already expressed concern that this may be happening and I think he’s certain to be proved right. Horses that could get into contention in races won’t. Some will argue that this is fine as we’ll still have a winner but no sport can tolerate a situation where there is doubt as to whether the winner was the best. I’ve already seen jockeys give up after one or two smacks on horses with ground to make on the leaders. Some of these horses could go on to be competitive in their races if their jockeys were empowered to ask their horses for full extension and effort. The new rules will prevent this. I’ll say it now so as not to be accused of aftertiming. The new whip rules do not allow jump jockeys sufficient leeway for all types of horses in all types of races. Once jockeys and trainers realise this they too will want a crisis meeting and they too will seek changes to the rules.
Many scoffed when I described the initial ‘kite flying’ by certain parties regarding the whip as ‘reckless and dangerous’. Events of this week have brought into focus how quickly a few wrong moves can propel us towards an endgame that a lack of foresight and vision failed to anticipate. That the Racing Post and colleagues like John McCrirrick have fuelled a fire which could very easily become an inferno if the wind changes is deeply regrettable.
The premature introduction of ill conceived rules has painted the BHA into a corner that is now very difficult for them to exit. Stick to their guns and the sports participants and fans will be in revolt. Change their stance and the anti racing brigade will claim the BHA lacks the will to follow its own advice. All is not lost though. The BHA’s own review confirmed that the existing rules were doing an excellent job in lots of ways. Here’s a few facts.
Less than one hundredth of all rides resulted in a breach of the old rules. That’s considerably less than one a meeting from all the jockeys on all the horses in all the races. Less than on fiftieth of one percent of all rides resulted in any kind of visible mark at all upon any horse. The number of serious injuries caused by the air cushioned stick under the old guidelines over the last few years? Precisely zero. How many breaches of the rules attract widespread comment? One or two a year? That’s somewhere between one five hundredth and one thousandth of one per cent of rides.
As for public opinion the BHA’s own research shows that a little education goes a long way and can turn a majority of anti’s into a minority with a few simple pointers. As for worries about the impact on public opinion of the Grand National, didn’t AP McCoy win Sports Personality of the Year in a landslide after passing the line in front in that very race with his whip held in the air?
There is still time to do the right thing. It’s now a hundred times harder than it was a week ago but good leadership – real leadership – is about doing what’s right. Even when it’s hard. t’s not quite a case of four more days to save the world but it is to be hoped that real change, justified change, rather than cosmetic change could occur this week. The good news is that the most important stat of all makes a u turn not just possible but justifiable. The BHA can accurately state that an arbitrary reduction in the number of strokes, even when coupled with swingeing sanctions, actually resulted in the number of breaches going up. Your move BHA.
Good piece..
For veteran rider Richard Hughes, however, it is too late.
Has he really handed in his license or is he just trying to get publicity? It seems strange he was at the meeting yesterday.
Has he really handed in his license or is he just trying to get publicity? It seems strange he was at the meeting yesterday.
"Besides, even as a PR exercise it was flawed: it is the last few yards that get televised on the news, so those with a gripe against the sport would still see horses being hit frequently in the run-in."
Excellent point, and all it means is that jockeys will be making every strike count in that last furlong - so it won't change public perception of the whip.
Excellent point, and all it means is that jockeys will be making every strike count in that last furlong - so it won't change public perception of the whip.
MARCUS TOWNEND
Expecting BHA to announce appeal hearing by Christophe Soumillon into his Ascot whip ban will be heard week Thursday (Oct 27th)
Expecting BHA to announce appeal hearing by Christophe Soumillon into his Ascot whip ban will be heard week Thursday (Oct 27th)
no sport can tolerate a situation where there is doubt as to whether the winner was the best
ROFPML
ROFPML
Lewis Porteous racingpost.com
DAVID PIPE on Tuesday became the latest high-profile name to criticise the new whip rules, admitting that the stricter guidelines have wider implications than those being suffered by jockeys.
Pipe also said that neither he, nor his father - multiple champion trainer Martin - were consulted prior tothe new rules being implemented and questioned the thought process behind the changes.
"We [trainers] have to look at things differently now," Pipe told At The Races. He continued: "There are lost of things to consider.If you have a free going sort you have to look closer at which race to consider. It is also a factor when buying horses and the courses you race at."
Asked if the BHA had approached either himself or Martin, Pipe added: "I certainly wasn't asked about my views. It doesn't appear that much thought has gone into the process.
"I would have thought on a lot of the panels my father would be very useful."
DAVID PIPE on Tuesday became the latest high-profile name to criticise the new whip rules, admitting that the stricter guidelines have wider implications than those being suffered by jockeys.
Pipe also said that neither he, nor his father - multiple champion trainer Martin - were consulted prior tothe new rules being implemented and questioned the thought process behind the changes.
"We [trainers] have to look at things differently now," Pipe told At The Races. He continued: "There are lost of things to consider.If you have a free going sort you have to look closer at which race to consider. It is also a factor when buying horses and the courses you race at."
Asked if the BHA had approached either himself or Martin, Pipe added: "I certainly wasn't asked about my views. It doesn't appear that much thought has gone into the process.
"I would have thought on a lot of the panels my father would be very useful."
frog2 18 Oct 11 11:34
For veteran rider Richard Hughes, however, it is too late.
Has he really handed in his license or is he just trying to get publicity? It seems strange he was at the meeting yesterday.
He has stopped riding and has been fined for the rides he was booked to ride but didn't take and I assume he has now stopped any more being booked but until he physically hands in his licence then he is still a licensed jockey.
They were saying that's why he was still allowed inside the weighing room on Saturday and presumably why he went to the meeting with the BHA.
For veteran rider Richard Hughes, however, it is too late.
Has he really handed in his license or is he just trying to get publicity? It seems strange he was at the meeting yesterday.
He has stopped riding and has been fined for the rides he was booked to ride but didn't take and I assume he has now stopped any more being booked but until he physically hands in his licence then he is still a licensed jockey.
They were saying that's why he was still allowed inside the weighing room on Saturday and presumably why he went to the meeting with the BHA.
Well he should become the jockey's representative he has plenty of time on his hands,
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