New Whip Regulation - 1 October

Reminder - The new Whip and Rein Regulation comes in to effect on Thursday 1 October.

In line with other jurisdictions around the world – most notably Australia - the changes are seen as an important step to improving animal welfare.

To see the new regulations in action (click here to view)

The new regulations stipulate that “a driver may only apply the whip in a wrist -only flicking motion whilst holding a rein in each hand.” The tip of the whip must also be pointed forward in an action which does not engage the shoulder.

The only times a driver may cross the reins is when activating gear, or for safety reasons.

A “wrist-only flicking motion” means that no force is generated by the use of the elbow or shoulder when applying the whip. The forearm cannot be raised beyond forty-five degrees and the whip cannot be applied with overt force.