November 17, 1998. Copyright, 1998, Graphic News. All rights reserved

WHIPPING UP A STORM
By Midge Todhunter

LONDON, November 17, Graphic News:  BRITAINÕS jockeys have been told to Ôwake up to their responsibilitiesÕ by their governing bodies, as the RSPCA recently stepped on to the racing scene and began speaking publicly of prosecuting riders who abuse their mounts through excessive use of the whip.
Several high-profile jockeys, including three-time champion Tony McCoy and Adrian McGuire, the aspiring champion with the Ôpower-packed finishÕ, have faced severe disciplinary action in recent weeks, resulting in lengthy bans. McCoy has also been referred to the British Racing School in Newmarket where he will receive instruction in the use of the whip surrounded by mirrors and a video camera whilst riding an equicisor Ð or mechanical horse Ð under the supervison of officials.
The Jockey Club have also begun mooting more radical proposals to counteract the problem, such as heavy fines and even the forfeit of prize money for trainers and jockeys.
Instruction H8 in the ClubÕs rule book clearly specifies the type of whip which must now be used by jockeys; and rule H9 states what is permissible, and non-permissable, use of this so-called safety whip, which includes foam padding to alleviate injury to the horse.
With the advent of close-up television, it is inevitable that those jockeys with flamboyant whip styles would be clamped down on, as the use of the whip is the most emotive subject in racing. But with converse pressure from the all-important punters to try and win races, many riders feel they are in a Catch 22 situation.
Nevertheless, the RSPCA now plan to cover most race meetings with a man on the spot, who is empowered to bring about court proceedings. As their spokesman Bernard Donigan says, ÔRacing is in everybodyÕs living room these days. I would have thought by now that jockeys would have taken steps to change things.Õ
/ENDS

Sources: The Jockey Club, Horse Requisites Newmarket Ltd