Point-to-point changes
* 2 ½ mile distance of races confined to four-year-olds: The dates in which races can be programmed over 2 ½ miles for four year olds during the spring season has been amended from February 1 to March 1 (previously 30th April). Hunts can still run races over 3 miles during this period, however, after March 1, all four-year-old races will be programmed over 3 miles.
* Weights in mares only maiden races: Weights in all maiden races confined to mares only will be reduced to 11st 7lb — from 12st.
* Mares’ allowance: The mares’ allowance of 5lb, introduced last season, is still under review and will remain in place this season. The stewards will consider the merits of increasing the allowance to 7lb in future.
* Programmes: Hunts will be requested to nominate five races, while submitting their programmes of races for fixtures to allow for greater flexibility to present balanced opportunities in the overall race programme. Races confined to 4-y-o, followed by races confined to 5-y-o mares, particularly during the spring period, will be run first on the card.
* Inspections of venues: Venues that stage multiple fixtures, or other events at the same venue, will be required to undergo an early pre-inspection by the course inspectorate in advance of subsequent scheduled fixtures to ensure that the racing surface is adequately presented at the inspection stage.
* The use of the whip: The recent changes to the whip regulations, including the types of whips to be used, will be introduced to point-to-points this season. Riders are requested to familiarise themselves with the changes.
The new season starts at Antrim on September 29.
