Model Rules Committee To Consider Safety Issues

At its next meeting, the Association of Racing Commissioners International’s Model Rules Committee will consider several recent recommendations from the Thoroughbred Safety Committee, formed by the Jockey Club and the Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summit.

When it meets on August 1 in Saratoga Springs, the committee will consider further limitations on toe grabs in Thoroughbred racing, proposed whip rules, changes to claiming rules, and requiring trainers to receive continuing education. Larry Eliason, of South Dakota, chairs the committee.

The safety committee has called for an immediate ban on toe grabs other than two-millimeter wear plates and the elimination of turn downs, jar caulks, stickers, and any other traction devices worn on the front shoes for racing and training on all surfaces. The RCI passed a model rule on toe grabs in 2007.

While the RCI passes model rules, it is up to each state to adopt the rules. The goal is for consistent racing rules from state to state.

The safety committee also recommended a model rule that establishes maximum weight and length for whips. It also asked for a prohibition on striking a horse with the arm raised above the shoulder and called for an inspection of horses after races.

The model rules committee also will consider proposed changes in model claiming rules to require that claims be voided under certain conditions and circumstances. For instance, the Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summit recommends voiding claims could if a horse fails to finish a race. Also, the summit has asked that trainers be required to receive continuing education.

Comments on proposed model rules can be emailed to rules@arci.com.

Source: www.hbpa.org