Talking Horses: BHA will consider backtrack on whip rule changes

Jockeys have objected to a new rule, due to come into force in February, which would ban forehand use of the whip. Photograph: Nick Potts/PA

The British Horseracing Authority indicated on Friday evening that it will look at amending its new rules on the use of the whip, which are due to come into force in February next year, following “public and private representations” from riders in recent days which focused in particular on a proposed ban on use of the whip in the forehand position.

The BHA published the amended rules in mid-July, following an extensive review and consultation process which included two senior jockeys, Tom Scudamore and PJ McDonald.