Horseracing has a long history and has been a popular sport for generations. But, in all these times one thing has been associated with it and is an integral part of it to date, the whip.  The use of whips has been seen in every race around the world throughout the centuries. People got used to it and considered it an essential part of the game. But, all these thoughts have changed and there has been a shift in views for the whip. With scientific research results and animal rights campaigns, people are considering it redundant and demand its ban.

In a recent interview, the CEO of  Racing Victoria hinted at the future of horse racing without a whip. This is considered a major shift in thought, but there were doubts about its applicability which he also addressed.

Horseracing without a whip

The CEO of Racing Victoria, Andrew Jones, considers that horseracing without a whip is a possibility that will happen in the future. Speaking in an interview Jones said, “I think if you look in 20 years time, will there be a whip in racing? Maybe, but if I had to bet, I would bet there won’t be “. He thinks that it will happen with a staged reduction over time. Jones’s idea stems from the thought that in order to increase the fan base for the sport you have to ultimately do it.

He said, “You have to regenerate your fan base, and if whip use is a barrier for prospective fans, which it is for many, and the research shows that, then you have to look at it seriously“. But, the point here is how will it be possible. Jones acknowledges that the task is not easy neither could be implemented at a fast pace. He says, “There’s a very wide range of stakeholders in racing and they have a wide range of views, and those views are strongly held“. He further adds, “So if you’re going to change things, you have to go through a process where you’re talking to people“. There are different views on the use of whips which should be addressed and changes should be brought gradually.

Use of whip in equestrian sports: Debated issue

The use of whips in horseracing has been a debated issue over the years. Those who are in favor of it think it’s necessary and doesn’t harm the horse only makes him run faster. Others who are against it think it’s cruel and an abuse of animal rights. There have been instances where the whip caused injury to the horse. Over the years various new set of rules has been formulated to limit the use of whip in horseracing.

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Three years back the Kentucky Racing Commission limited the use of whips during racing to a maximum of six times. In Australia, the use of whips is limited to five non-consecutive times prior to the final hundred meters, and in the last hundred meters, it’s unlimited. In Britain, the whips can be used a maximum of six times in a flat race and seven times in a jump race.

The statement by the CEO of Racing Victoria shows a change in the view related to whips within the equestrian industry and with the passage of time and dialogue the future of horseracing without whips will be possible.

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