New rules for jockey weights and racing frequency come into effect

6 November 2023

The Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC) stewards are calling on participants to make themselves aware of recent rule changes that change the way racing is conducted.

LR 64A is a new spread of jockey weights and Local Rule 129 provides stimulations around how frequent horses can start in a race in Queensland.

From early last month Local Rule 64A came into effect and provides a new spread of weights for jockeys from 54 kilos to 60 kilos.

QRIC Chief Thoroughbred Steward Josh Adams said this rule will help jockeys ride in the industry for longer.

“This is a new initiative to assist those jockeys riding in handicap races these measures will create a better spread of the weights to give jockeys across the State greater opportunity with the increased top weight, particularly in regional areas where we know finding riders is becoming more difficult,” he said.

The Local Rule 129 limits the frequency of race starts for thoroughbreds, and it has always stipulated that horses can’t race more than once in one day, it now extends to racing on consecutive days without the permission of the stewards.

The animal care measures stipulate that:  
(1) a horse shall not compete in more than one race on any one day.

(2) Except the permission of the stewards, a horse shall not compete in a race on consecutive days or in a race on more than five occasions during any 30-day period.

(3) Notwithstanding sub rules 1 and 2 of rule, the stewards may decline to receive, or at any time after having received, rejected any nomination or entry when the frequency of starts of the horse is, in the opinion of the stewards considered detrimental to the welfare of the horse.

Mr Adams said the stewards will work with owners and trainers in regional areas where race meetings are held on consecutive days.

“We understand that in some circumstances, horses are engaged to race in regional racing on consecutive days, but we want to ensure that animal welfare is the key consideration before permission is granted,” he said.

For more information contact stewards@qric.qld.gov.au