Quote:
Originally Posted by duncan04
Why do harness horses get to wear them but not thoroughbreds? Screwed up NYRA rule. Either ban them from all breeds or allow for all breeds
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No, there are separate rules for T-breds and harness in NYS. The rules do not have to be the same. This is the State rule and it says:
4033.8. Equipment regulated.
Only equipment specifically approved by the stewards shall be worn or carried by a jockey or a horse in a race.
For whatever reason stewards ruled against them. This is established policy which has been applied to all. The policy is based upon the New York State rule and has been determined, not by NYRA, but by the majority of the stewards, one appointed by NYS, one by NYRA, and one by the Jockey Club. For all we know the NYRA steward was in support of their use.
All this said, this is the established policy which is completely based on the rules. It is ok to change policy, but to do so to benefit one horse in one race, no matter who the horse is and what the race is, is irresponsible and a truly unfair act. If they want to change policy, then it should be done for a legitimate reason based on evidence.