What are the crop rules, and how are breaches penalised?

The crop itself (Rule 58.10): only NHA-approved crops, maximum 68 cm, minimum 1 cm diameter, no more than 160 g, with a smooth, shock-absorbing paddle and no binding within 17 cm of the end. You must not misuse it, use it unnecessarily or excessively, or use it on the horse's head.

Appendix E guidance: show the horse the crop and give it time to respond; use it in rhythm with the stride and close to the horse's side. Only use it forward of the saddle backhand down the shoulder with both hands on the reins (not on consecutive strides), or for safety or when your crop hand is in restricted room.

Penalty guidelines (May 2026), Rule 58.10.2:

Guideline (m), more than 10 hits in the race, is dealt with under a separate NHA document. The stewards also weigh distance, the horse's experience and response, and force used.