British point-to-pointing is awaiting further updates from the British Horseracing Authority before taking a position on proposed changes to the way whips are used in races..
A review group titled the Whip Consultation Steering Group on Tuesday published its findings and caused some surprise when recommending the whip be used in the backhand only. It also called for disqualification of horses in extreme breaches of whip use.
Point-to-pointing invariably follows racing under Rules, and its current stance on use of the whip is the same as in Jump races i.e. the whip should be used no more than eight times in a race when the rider’s whip hand is not holding the reins. However, any move to bring in the new recommendations under Rules could come too late for the next point-to-point season.
Peter Wright, chief executive of the Point-to-Point Authority (PPA), welcomed the review but said it was difficult for the sport to change regulations in mid-season once they had been printed. Volunteers including stewards would need to be briefed. Furthermore there were some complexities which would make a direct switch difficult, for example the lack of film angles. Nevertheless the PPA was working with the BHA to find a positive way forward.
The 4lb riders’ safety allowance, which was introduced under Rules on May 2, did not come into effect in the final weeks of the 2021/22 point-to-point season, but will be in place for the start of next season. Rule E20 of the Rules of Racing now states: ‘Jockeys will be given a 4lb weight allowance to support their safety, including to compensate for the weights of the safety vest.’
