Code of Maryland Regulations
Title 09 - MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
Subtitle 10 - RACING COMMISSION
Chapter 09.10.01 - Thoroughbred Rules
Section 09.10.01.59 - Weighing Out

Universal Citation: MD Code Reg 09.10.01.59

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 19, September 20, 2024

A. Jockeys shall be weighed out for their respective mounts in each race by the clerk of the scales not less than 20 minutes before the time fixed for the race. In case of the substitution of a jockey after the original jockey has been weighed out, the substitute jockey shall be weighed as promptly as possible and the name of the substitute jockey and the jockey's weight shall be publicly announced and posted.

B. A saddle and the following equipment, if used, shall be included in the weight a horse is assigned to carry:

(1) Breastplate;

(2) Horse clothing;

(3) Martingale; and

(4) Muzzle.

C. The following items may not be included in the weight a horse is assigned to carry:

(1) Bit;

(2) Blinkers;

(3) Bridle;

(4) Number cloth;

(5) Reins;

(6) Safety helmet;

(7) Safety vest; and

(8) Whip or substitute for a whip.

D. Bridle and Whip.

(1) A bridle weighing more than 2 pounds may not be used in a race.

(2) A whip to be used in a race:
(a) Shall be padded;

(b) Shall be approved by the stewards;

(c) May not weigh more than 8 ounces; and

(d) May not exceed 30 inches in length.

E. Five pounds is the limit of the overweight any horse is allowed to carry.

F. A jockey, except when riding for the jockey's contract employer, may not be weighed out for any race unless there has been deposited with, or guaranteed by, the racing association the fee for a losing mount in the race.

G. Owners having unpaid jockey or other fees at the close of the race meeting shall be billed by the racing association within 20 days of the close of their race meet, with a duplicate copy of bill to the trainer. Accounts shall be paid within 30 days from the billing date. At the expiration of the 30 day period, it shall be the duty of the association to notify the Racing Commission or the stewards, in writing, of all delinquent accounts, at which time all owners with outstanding accounts will be suspended until the fees are paid.

H. The association shall provide the only attendants who will be permitted to assist jockeys in weighing out.

I. The equipment carried or worn by a jockey or a horse in a race is subject to the approval of the stewards.

Disclaimer: These regulations may not be the most recent version. Maryland may have more current or accurate information. We make no warranties or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information contained on this site or the information linked to on the state site. Please check official sources.
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