Jockeys still pressing for whip rule changes

The dialogue, between the British Horseracing Authority and Professional Jockeys’ Association, started before AP McCoy, the 16-time champion, fell foul of the new rules.

He received a five-day ban at Ffos Las for hitting second-placed Caddie Master nine times – one more than the permitted limit.

Before the changes came into force last month, experts contend that McCoy would almost certainly have won on the Jonjo O’Neill-trained horse.

McCoy, and his colleagues, fear racing is losing its competitive edge and are understood to want stipendiary stewards at race meetings to be given greater discretion.

PJA chief executive Kevin Darley told the Yorkshire Post: “As far as the PJA is concerned, we continue to have positive discussions privately with the BHA. We hope progress can be made and we can agree on a way forward.”

BHA communications manager Robin Mounsey said: “It would be wrong of us to react based solely on a high-profile jockey being suspended. Constant monitoring of the situation and constant dialogue is taking place.”

At least McCoy did not have to use his whip when he had the first walk-over his career at Southwell yesterday – Larks Lad took all the prize money after Fred Kennet, the only other runner, was withdrawn.

TOP hurdler Grands Crus, the mount of Tom Scudamore, will make his chasing debut at Cheltenham on Friday.