Woodbine to trial new whip restrictions in two-month test period

Jockeys riding at Woodbine will be subject to new riding rules that will add restrictions on whip use in a test period at the Canadian track beginning on October 18.

The new rules will restrict whip use to the underhand position, allow no contact with the horse with the whip in the cocked position, and prohibit any hits to the horse's belly or surrounding area.

Agreement over the new rules was reached by track owner Woodbine Entertainment, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), the Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association of Ontario (HBPA), and the Jockey's Benevolent Association of Canada (JBAC).

"Woodbine Entertainment is committed to safety and being a leader of change for the betterment of the horseracing industry in Ontario and throughout North America," said Woodbine Entertainment CEO Jim Lawson.

"We are proud to partner with the AGCO, HBPA, and JBAC on this important initiative that will surely have a positive impact on our sport and industry."

Over the past months, regulatory staff have met with key executive representatives from Woodbine Entertainment, the jockeys, and horsemen to discuss and build consensus on how best to amend the rules. This dialogue will continue through the Woodbine meeting until December 15.

Retired Hall of Fame jockey Sandy Hawley sees benefit to the rule change and the test period as an important first step.

"I will always be very supportive of any improvement that's for the betterment of the sport and the safety of the horses and the riders," Hawley said. "The test period is also a good idea that will provide everyone involved with an opportunity to learn from the experience and help create a smooth and safe implementation of the new rule."

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