Australian harness racing will ban the use of whips in racing and training from September 2017.
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Harness Racing Australia (HRA) has introduced the 'world-leading animal welfare intiative' for the 'long-term support and sustainability of the industry'.
Australia is the first country in the world to voluntarily ban the whip.
"The whip ban decision was not taken lightly, but was made on our own initiative because we believe it is the right decision at the right time," HRA chairman Geoff Want said.
"We have been moving down this path for six years by limiting its use with a strong focus on health and welfare of horses.
"We see the ban as a vital way of demonstrating our responsibility as an industry, and to earning and maintaining the social acceptance and sustainability of harness racing."