Starting on March 8th, 2010, all jockeys at Portland Meadows will be required to use equine friendly riding crops that conform to a new house rule at the North Portland race track. Portland Meadows along with the help from horse people Ron Sutton of Sutton Tire and Chain in Portland and Debbie Funk of the Vince Funk All State Agency in Olympia, Washington, have purchased sixteen of the new softer equine friendly riding crops from four different companies. Riders will use these crops in all races conducted at Portland Meadows beginning on March 8th.
“I’m thrilled with how Portland Meadows management has worked with the riders on deciding to use the equine friendly riding crops,” said Darrell Haire, west coast regional manager of the Jockey Guild. “These riding crops are safer for the horses and it is a win-win situation for everyone involved.”
Equine friendly riding crops are generally lighter, shorter and feature a softer and smoother flap, which is the part that comes into contact with the horse. The equine friendly riding crops have been used at Del Mar in California as well as at Arlington Park in Chicago and Fair Grounds Race Course in New Orleans. They have consistently received favorable reviews from both riders and horsemen. The equine friendly riding crops are made of a much softer leather and makes a louder popping noise when used, thus the horses respond more to the sound than the physical reaction.
“I’ve used the new crops up at Emerald Downs both in the morning and in races,” said local jockey Robert Burney. “I think that they seem to be very fair and I certainly feel comfortable riding with them.”