Rule changes starting May 1

[dinkadoo]

* no more timing the gate. 16.04. will cause driver to be fined or suspended.

* rule that was crossed out and omitted... horses are to be held NO LONGER than 2 minutes awaiting post time.

*  At extended pari-mutuel tracks, a leading horse is not to be more than four feet from the inside rail/pylons except after selecting his position in the home stretch -- interesting as I see more and more the lead horse going well into the two path --- feel like I'm watching Nascar.


* Kicking shall be defined as a blow or thrust with the foot against any part of the horse’s body or to impel by striking with the foot at any time on the racetrack, including before, during or after the race. Removal of a foot from the stirrups or any foot supports in and of itself shall not constitute the offense of kicking. The penalty for kicking as defined herein shall not be less than nine days suspension.   

*  Whip Regulations/Prohibitions. – Drivers will be allowed only black whips not to exceed four (4) feet, plus a snapper not longer than six (6) inches. -- why the color black, so the judges can see them better ?
 

[Rabbi Of Racing]

racist whips

[viking55]

*  Whip Regulations/Prohibitions. – Drivers will be allowed only black whips not to exceed four (4) feet, plus a snapper not longer than six (6) inches. -- why the color black, so the judges can see them better ?

 It's so the public can't see how many times a driver hits a horse. It's a LOT easier to tell when the whip is a light color. They are tired of the public complaining about it.

[MR.DALRAE]

So we are saying to judges even look,,,,

[Ohracing]

I assume these are USTA rules.  USTA rules mean nothing to Pari Mutual race track.  The states have their own rules governing their tracks.  The USTA rules govern a few non betting fairs in some states.