The Executive of Harness Racing Australia (HRA) has reaffirmed its commitment to the removal of the use of whips in harness racing.
“The Executive is committed to the concept as unanimously endorsed at the HRA Annual Meeting last October,” Chairman Geoff Want said after a meeting in Sydney yesterday.
“Despite some objections from participants, this is an important animal welfare issue and we will continue to consult with the broader industry on the implementation date and procedures and to determine how to address their concerns”.
Want said that from the work already undertaken, the original implementation date of 1 September 2017 was not achievable and alternatives will be examined in the weeks ahead.