Tasracing is working with local harness racing entities and Harness Racing Australia (HRA) to progress the proposal for national whip free harness racing from 1 September 2017.
An important part of the consultation process is a HRA meeting with harness driving representatives from each state in Melbourne on Wednesday 26 April. Barrie Rattray and Ricky Duggan have been selected to represent Tasmanian drivers.
Topics for discussion include:
- Clarification and use of whips in non-racing activities
- Safety device design (inclusive of some manufactured examples)
- Discussion on rule wording
- Development of trial to determine viability and appropriateness – as well as the post-trial reporting mechanisms
Tasracing is committed to working with Tasmanian harness racing stakeholders and Harness Racing Australia throughout the discussion on whip rule changes.