In one week the AGCO, Woodbine Racetrack and HBPA Ontario will launch a trial of new urging rules which centres on riders using the whip underhanded only.
The trial, which will begin Oct. 18 and run until the last day of racing in early December has been covered in various media outlets and has drawn varied opinions.
Following a ‘grace’ period, those who violate the new rule in this experimental period will have their horse disqualified and receive a fine/suspension.
The AGCO stewards met with riders at Woodbine on Friday and documented this report:
– Paddock meeting with the Riders to explain the new urging rule to be implemented Friday October 18, 2019 where a rider must not use the crop in the cocked or overhand position.
They may cock the crop to show the horse or to switch hands but may not strike the horse.
Advised that the direction we are to follow is there is a two week grace period following implementation where warnings will be given to riders that unintentionally break the rule.
However, it is still our discretion to disqualify if we feel the violation was purposely made. After the first two weeks, should someone violate, it will be an automatic disqualification and the rider will be penalized given their current position on the graduated penalty scale. Current rules remain unaffected such as no more than three strikes in succession and not to raise their hand over the helmet
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