April 8, 1999. Copyright, 1999, Graphic News. All rights reserved

TONGUE STRAP TO BE USED ON GRAND NATIONAL HORSES
By Midge Todhunter

LONDON, April 8, Graphic News:  THIS year the public will be made aware for the first time of which horses will run in the Aintree Grand National wearing a tongue strap.
Within the last week the Jockey Club has introduced rules making it compulsory for all trainers to declare the day before the race their intentions to fit tongue straps after several long-priced winners romped home recently, all displaying markedly improved performances when fitted with the breathing aid.
Furious puntersÕ associations together with the racing media subsequently called for a more informed picture of the prospects of each runner.
More usually associated with very tiring soft or heavy ground, the device is a simple leather strap which stops the horseÕs tongue sliding back in its throat, obstructing the windpipe and restricting breathing.
A short bandage, or section of ladiesÕ tights, are also commonly used in place of the conventional leather strap.
Most horses do not mind the tongue strap, though some have been known to sulk. But those horses intended to be fitted with the device in the big race will have been accustomed to wearing the strap in training sessions on the home gallops, or in previous races.
/ENDS

Source: The Jockey Club