The consultation aims to gather input from sports betting industry experts and stakeholders on whip usage rules and penalties for rule violations in relation to sports betting. It consists of an online questionnaire, accessible to anyone interested in the topic, which will be open for 10 weeks until September 6th. Participants can provide suggestions, which will then be reviewed by the Whip Consultation Steering Group, comprising industry experts. The Group will select suitable recommendations to present to the BHA board for consideration and approval in early 2022.
Julie Harrington, the BHA chief executive, emphasized the importance of maintaining public trust and social license in the ever-changing societal and political landscape. Harrington stated that the racing industry needs to listen to various perspectives to ensure its long-term future and called for an open debate on perception and fairness. Harrington encouraged everyone interested in the subject to participate in the consultation to have their voices heard.
Brant Dunshea, the BHA’s chief regulatory officer, urged respondents to utilize the supporting information provided in the consultation. This information outlines the current design of the whip, the rules governing its use, and the associated penalties. Dunshea emphasized that the issue is complex and requires a comprehensive examination of various aspects such as the use of the whip for encouragement, the specific rules for padded whips, and the penalties for rule breaches.
The BHA requests that all individuals involved contribute constructively and respectfully to the debate. Additionally, it is worth noting that the BHA formed a steering group last year to collaborate on proposals for reforming the horseracing levy.
