An industry initiative to explore the use of the whip in the Ontario horse racing industry manifested in an Ontario Racing Commission-led working session today at the Mississauga Convention Centre.

Members of the quarter horse, thoroughbred and standardbred industries were in attendance, as was Mindy Hall of the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. 'Welfare, Safety and Control of the Horse: Examination of the use of the Whip' was the theme of the gathering.

Over 50 industry representatives gathered to discuss what has become a hot-button issue in the North American industry.

Representatives in attendance included current and retired jockeys and drivers, horse people associations, racetracks, animal welfare agencies and the equine veterinarian community.

The ORC had assembled the wide group of industry figures to produce discussion on the issues, and all sides let their feelings be known.

It is expected that the ORC will be announcing next steps in the process in the near future.