Australian state of Victoria bans jump racing

[Aykay1]

I am well and truly converted from the flat to the jumps racing nowadays and I think this season has the potential to be the best yet, however the number of horse deaths suprised me and sits a little uncomfortably with me. Is there any chance of this ruling coming into play here in years to come? -------------------------------------------

Australian state of Victoria bans jump racing

By Phil Mercer BBC News, Sydney Changes were made recently but deaths continued this season Steeplechase and hurdle racing in the Australian state of Victoria will be abolished in 2010, prompted by the deaths of 20 horses in two years. The decision follows a comprehensive review of the sport and has been welcomed by animal welfare groups. However, members of the racing industry have reacted with anger, calling it "unbelievable" and "appalling". Racing's governing body in Victoria had conceded that the sport was in decline because of mounting safety concerns. Furious response HAVE YOUR SAY There is an element of risk in many sports - without this it would become too sanitised and boring Joe Lyndon Send us your comments Animal rights campaigners have described racing over hurdles and fences as not only shameful and barbaric but "morally wrong". An official review of the industry last year recommended a raft of new safety measures, all of which were adopted by authorities in Victoria. Despite the changes, the fatalities have continued, with eight horses dying in races this season. The deaths prompted an urgent investigation, which has resulted in the banning of the sport. It has drawn a furious response from some owners, trainers and jockeys. Steeplechase events in Victoria will go on for another year in an attempt to soften the impact of their abolition on those involved. Neighbouring South Australia, the only other state in the country that allows jump racing, has said its programme will continue and hopes to attract trainers and horses from Victoria. However, officials in South Australia are not celebrating and have expressed deep concerns about the long-term viability of their steeplechasing industry.