The capital of Australian racing has banned steeplechase and jumps racing. The controversial decision was announced late last week by Racing Victoria Chairman Michael Duffy. Animal welfare groups naturally greeted the news with unabashed enthusiasm, but many horsemen are bewildered by the decision, which effectively ends a 150-year old tradition in Victoria.

According to published reports, 10 horses have died this year in Victoria during compulsory trials and races.

The ban, which takes effect after the 2010 season, means that South Australia will be the only state left in the country to allow jumps racing.