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Kentucky bans one-handed whipping, snappers

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September 23, 2008

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The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC) on Monday approved the banning of one-handed whipping in harness racing, with the new rules going into effect the spring of 2009 after a public comment period.

Drivers will now be required to keep one rein in each hand and will not be allowed to lean out and use the whip while coming down the stretch. The KHRC also banned the snappers at the end of the whip.

A first whipping offense could cost a driver a fine of $100 to $13,000 and a suspension of 10 to 30 days. The use of a snapper could result in a $20,000 fine and one-year suspension.

"I've been in harness racing for 50 years, and over that time I've watched abusive whipping become a cancer on our business," KHRC commission member Alan Leavitt, president of Walnut Hall Ltd., told the Lexington Herald Leader. "And until we get rid of it, it's going to be impossible to increase our fan base, and we're not going to be able to attract new owners. People don't want to see it."

In a statement, Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear applauded the KHRC's actions.

"Once again, the KHRC has moved forcefully to enhance the safety of horse racing." Beshear said. "I am proud that Kentucky is at the foremost of states acting on behalf of the humane treatment of trotters and pacers."

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