RV approves whip-limited series

Racing Victoria has confirmed it will use an upcoming country mile race series to trial the limited use of the whip in races.

The series, which will be exclusive to Victorian country trainers, will have five heats and a final, in which jockeys are not permitted to use the whip more than five times throughout the race.

Under current rules, jockeys can only use their whip five times before the 100-metre mark but are then given unlimited use from the 100m to the finishing post.

In announcing the series, RV executive general manager of racing, Greg Carpenter, said: "The trial of races with limited use of the whip throughout the upcoming Country Mile Races Series is an important exercise which will assist us with gathering data in areas such as wagering, fan engagement, participant support, conduct and safety of the race, and impacts on form lines.

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Article written by: Andrew Eddy