It is disappointing the board of Racing Victoria Limited (RVL) has decided to cease all hurdle racing until the end of the season.

The board says the decision is based on information provided by Judge David Jones relating to safety concerns surrounding modular hurdles.

According to RVL, Judge Jones has obtained information that modular hurdles raise significant safety concerns in their current form.

Steeplechase races will run as programmed for the time being and Judge Jones will present his independent review to RVL in early November.

Animal welfare organisations have argued against jumps racing for many years. The fact more deaths occur in flat racing seems to escape them.

Hurdles and steeplechases have a proud history in Australia. They have produced legends such as the great Crisp - a champion Australian steeplechase horse renowned for his magnificent run in the 1973 Grand National.

Nicknamed "The Black Kangaroo" in England, he was second to Red Rum in the 1973 Grand National when conceding the future champion a considerable weight advantage. Crisp led over the final fence before running out of stamina.

Despite Red Rum winning three Nationals and securing a place in British sporting history, the 1973 race is more fondly remembered for Crisp's brave run in defeat.

There are many trainers, owners and jockeys who earn much of their racing income from hurdles, including some in the South East.

Hopefully the Judge's review will make recommendations that enable the sport to continue in Victoria, for any ban there would almost certainly kill the industry in South Australia.