Whip rules a work in progress

Racing: The British Horseracing Authority insist the new whip rules are still the subject of “constant monitoring” after Tony…

Racing:The British Horseracing Authority insist the new whip rules are still the subject of "constant monitoring" after Tony McCoy became the latest high-profile jockey to receive a suspension at Ffos Las on Sunday.

The 16-times champion received his first five-day ban under the new regulations after being found to have used his whip once more than the allotted eight times on Caddie Master, who was beaten a short-head in the three-mile handicap hurdle.

McCoy will receive a 10-day suspension the next time he falls foul of the rules in the next 12 months, and a further 30-day ban for a third offence within that period, and was critical of the rules when airing his views on television in the immediate aftermath.

BHA communications manager Robin Mounsey said today: “It’s the same situation as before. Discussions are continuing with the PJA and Horsemen, but they are quite rightly taking place out of the media.

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“It would be wrong of us to react based solely on a high-profile jockey being suspended. As has been said on a number of occasions, it is an ongoing process. I can assure you that constant monitoring of the situation and constant dialogue is taking place.”