(a) The use of a whip is not required and a jockey
who uses a whip during a race may do so only in a manner consistent
with using the jockey's best efforts to win. The correct uses of a
whip include:
(1) showing the whip to the horse before hitting the
horse;
(2) using the whip in rhythm to the horse's stride;
and
(3) using the whip as an aid to keep a horse running
straight.
(b) A whip used in races must be at least 1/4-inch
in diameter and have a looped leather "popper" affixed to one end.
The whip must have at least three rows of leather feathers above the
popper and each feather must be at least one inch long. The popper
must be at least 1 1/4 inch wide and three inches long. A whip may
not exceed one pound in weight or 31 inches in length, including the
popper.
(c) If a jockey is to ride without a whip, the stewards
shall ensure that fact is announced over the public address system.
(d) A jockey may not whip a horse:
(1) on the head, flanks, or on any part of the horse's
body other than the shoulders or hind quarters;
(2) excessively or brutally causing welts or breaks
in the skin;
(3) in the post parade except when necessary to control
the horse;
(4) when the horse is clearly out of the race or has
obtained its maximum placing; or
(5) persistently, if the horse is not responding to
the whip.
(e) A jockey may not ride in a race unless the jockey
wears a safety vest meeting the requirements of §311.218 of this
title (relating to Safety Equipment). A safety vest may weigh no more
than two pounds.
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Source Note: The provisions of this §313.405 adopted to be effective August 30, 1989, 14 TexReg 4125; amended to be effective October 11, 1990, 15 TexReg 5704; amended to be effective May 13, 1993, 18 TexReg 2849; amended to be effective September 1, 1993, 18 TexReg 5398; amended to be effective March 4, 1994, 19 TexReg 1215; amended to be effective April 4, 2005, 30 TexReg 1627; amended to be effective October 19, 2015, 40 TexReg 7220 |