BATHURST Harness Racing Club chief executive officer Danny Dwyer believes the move to ban the use of whips is a “step in the right direction” for the industry.
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An announcement was made after Friday night’s Inter Dominion final that Australian harness racing is banning the use of whips in training and racing from September 1, 2017.
“It’s probably been on the radar for a while now, it has been discussed at the clubs’ meeting and I know it has been high on the agenda with Harness Racing Australia,” Dwyer said.
“It was a bit of a surprise to see it happen now … but I think it was always going to happen, it was just a matter of when.
“I think it’s probably a step in the right direction.”
The chairman of Harness Racing Australia, Geoff Want, believes the ban will increase the appeal and sustainability of the spot.
He said that this step, which makes Australia the first country in the world to voluntarily ban the whip, continues an industry focus on horse welfare.
“The whip ban decision was not taken lightly, but was made on our own initiative because we believe it is the right decision at the right time,” Want said.
“We see the ban as a vital way of demonstrating our responsibility as an industry.”
Dwyer agrees that the move can broaden the appeal of the sport and continues an evolution within the industry to “alleviate any perceived cruelty to horses.”
“From an industry point of view I think it will help promote that we have these great drivers and breeders – they are what win races, not whips,” Dwyer said.
“It is a difficult one though isn’t it? You’ve got the issue of using a whip on a horse, then the issues with the drivers. A driver is going to do everything they can to win a race, and there is that safety issue as well – it is not always possible if a horse is acting up to get it under control with a tap of the rein.
“My understanding is that they are still going to have some sort of crop to deal with that safety issue.”
Chris Alford, the most successful driver in the history of Bathurst’s Gold Crown Carnival, said he supported the ban.
“Drivers are very sensitive to their horses and appreciate and support moves to ensure high standards of animal welfare that are aligned with community expectations,” Alford said.
“We also know that a shying horse is a danger to itself, drivers, people and other horses nearby. I fully support the decision to ban the whip, plus maintain safety for all involved.”
