In response to E Izett's letter ‘Ban horse race whips' (The Weekend Sun, March 28).
His comments are obviously by someone who knows absolutely nothing about thoroughbred and standardbred racing.

The New Zealand Racing Authority has strict guidelines on whip use. If it is deemed to be excessive, the jockey can be fined, suspended, or both.

On the other hand, if a jockey does not ride their mount out to its full potential - ie use of whip if needed, he or she can face the same disciplinary action.

Jockeys, trainers and owners have an absolute love for these animals. If they were to be harmed in any way it would be totally unthinkable .

If the SPCA thought whip use was in anyway harmful they would have stepped in decades ago.

As far as short stirrups go, it places the jockeys weight more to the horse's front legs, which gives it more comfort and balance when racing.

Please Mr Izett, my advice to you is do your research before you comment on something you know little about.

T Wilson, Katikati.