I am surprised there has not been more discussion of the new whip rule.

From DRF:

"TSG and TOC also adopted new guidelines concerning whip use. Under the directive, the whip can only be used as a corrective safety measure. This has already gone into effect during training hours."

It sounds like jockeys may no longer use the whip to ask for more speed. I know nothing about training horses, but if horses have been trained to expect the whip as a signal for additional exertion, I would think this could significantly affect outcomes.

I also wonder what impact the new bute rule (none after 48 hours from race, up from 24 hours) will have.