Del Mar adopts softer whips that will get horses’ attention with popping noise, not pain

Del Mar adopts softer whips for horses

DEL MAR, Calif. — Del Mar is taking the sting out of its whips.

On Wednesday, it will become the first California track to require riding crops that don’t raise welts. The San Diego Union-Tribune reported the whips are made of softer leather or fabric. They’re supposed to get the horse’s attention with a popping noise rather than by causing pain.

The new whips cost more but the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club will provide them to jockeys who can’t afford them.

Actress Bo Derek is on the California Horse Racing Board and says she noticed many Del Mar jockeys already using the whips. She suggested making it a rule.

Hollywood Park will require the softer whips this fall. Tracks in Kentucky, New York and Maryland already do so.