Toronto, ON – The Ontario Thoroughbred horse racing industry today announced a new Use of the Whip Initiative. The Initiative asks all jockeys in the first two races of every card at Woodbine from Wednesday, June 3, 2009 through Sunday, June 28, 2009 to use a Lite Touch Whip. Jockeys will have the option of using the Lite Touch Whip for the remainder of the card on each day.
Also, during the program, jockeys can use no more than two consecutive strikes once the whip is in use, allowing reasonable time for the horse to respond.
The following are comments from industry sources on the pilot project:
Steve Koch (Vice President of Thoroughbred Racing for Woodbine Entertainment Group)…
“The Horsemen, Jockeys and Racing Commission are to be commended for their partnership in this cooperative process. This pilot project is, in effect, an industry consultation and we look forward to reconvening at the end of June to evaluate our progress. Woodbine participates in this project eagerly and we appreciate our customers’ support as we progress on this important issue.”
Robert King, Jr. (Secretary-Manager for the Jockeys Benefit Association of Canada)…
“In response to recent industry events, the JBAC supports our involvement with the Use of the Whip Initiative. Our jockeys are looking forward to participating in this initiative and be able to afford practice and input into this pilot program.”
Sue Leslie (President of the Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association)…
“After attending and giving input at many industry meetings, the HBPA fully supports the Ontario Racing Commission’s Use of the Whip Initiative. We were pleased to be consulted and look forward to giving feedback on the various aspects of the project. We are also proud of all the industry partners for its cooperation in this development.”
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