In a statement issued on Monday, the National Racing Bureau advises that following ongoing concerns with the excessive use of the crop in Work Riders races, and after discussions with the relevant Riding Masters and the National Horseracing Authority, 4Racing, Cape Racing and Gold Circle will be limiting all their Work Riders Races to a ‘hands and heels’ status only with effect from January 2022.
This will be implemented on a trail basis.
This would effectively mean that riders will be allowed to carry the whip in the backhand position with their hands not being permitted to leave the reins, when using the crop on only the horse’s neck or shoulder.
The NRB states that they strongly believe that this will be beneficial from a horse welfare perspective and in fact result in horses performing as well (if not better) with a more balanced hands and heels ride.
If successful the plan will be to implement the ruling on a permanent basis going forward.
