Positive reaction to new whip rules in the UK

Leading jockeys and trainers have welcomed the changes to rules governing the use of the whip in horse racing in the UK.

New sanctions will be introduced on October 10th following a lengthy review by the BHA (British Horseracing Authority).

These include limiting jockeys to maximum use of seven times during a Flat race, and eight times during a jumps race. The rules will also see stiffer penalties for riders who transgress.

Frankie Dettori, arguably the most famous face in Flat racing, said: "I am not proud of having fallen foul of the whip rules in the past but I have never harmed a horse.

"These new rules are easy to understand which will help all jockeys ride within them.

"I accept these new rules are in the best interest of our great sport and it is right that they should be in place in time for Britain's richest ever raceday, Qipco British Champions Day (Ascot, October 15)."

Tony McCoy, champion jumps jockey for the last 16 years and reigning BBC Sports Personality of the Year, said: "The PJA (Professional Jockeys Association) has worked closely with the Authority on the BHA's Review and I hope my colleagues embrace the proposed changes as being in the best interest of the sport.

"I for one support the changes."

Sir Henry Cecil, 10-times champion Flat trainer, added: "The BHA has done an excellent, thorough job with their review and I welcome these changes, which will hopefully serve British Racing well."

Paul Nicholls, champion jumps trainer for the last six years, said: "Whilst I've been a critic of the rules in the past, nobody likes seeing misuse of the whip and I agree that the time had come when something had to be done.

"I am pleased that the BHA has made sensible and reasonable changes, and I am supportive of them."

The officials and specialists involved in implementing the changes are happy with the outcome.

BHA chairman Paul Roy said: "This has been an incredibly wide-ranging piece of work, resulting in a comprehensive Review that the Authority is very proud of.

"The Board approved every one of the recommendations and the message is loud and clear - we will continue to lead the way in responsible regulation and will make difficult decisions in the best interests of the sport and its participants."