CHRB Weighs In on Whipping Rule

Continued . . .

Many believe whipping and “urging” a horse forward when fatigued is abusive. Obviously, others agreed enough to have approved the three-whippings rule in the first place. Nevertheless, on May 26, 2016, the California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) approved an amendment to increase the limit to four whippings. The increase was especially promoted by jockey Alex Solis, who explained that a fourth whipping can make all the difference in winning a race. He then cast the deciding vote (4-3) in the new rule’s favor. The board has now opened the matter to a 45-day public-comment period. More >>