Why Non-Runners And Deductions Matter

The basic rule is that if you don’t have a chance of winning your bet, then it is void, and your stake money is returned to you. Typically this happens when your horse is declared a “non-runner” and takes no part in the race.

With football betting, a first goal scorer bet is void if your nominated player comes on after the first goal has been scored. If he is substituted before the first goal is scored however, the bet stands because he has had the opportunity to score the first goal.

An exception to “the non-runner is a void bet” rule is with ante-post betting. Bookmakers offer ante-post markets on major horse races (such as the Derby) long before the race is run. In such markets, non-runner stakes are not returned. These markets will change to normal non-runner rules a week or two before the race (but with a respective odds shortening.) Check the rules clearly before you place your bet.

The converse to having your stake returned on a non-runner is that if another horse in the race is declared a “non-runner” then the chances of your horse winning have improved. If it wins, then the price paid to you is reduced to reflect this, which is known as a “”Rule 4” deduction.

Rule 4’s are quoted in pence in the pound reductions. The full stake is returned, and the win element calculated on the original odds, then reduced by the Rule 4. For example, a £10 win bet at Evens would normally return £20 (based on the £10 stake returned, and £10 won.) With a 10p Rule 4, the win would be reduced by 10p in the pound, giving £9, and the return on the bet would be £19. With a 20p Rule 4, the return would be £18. The Rule 4 deduction is determined by the price of the withdrawn horse, and the shorter that price, the higher deduction. For example, a withdrawn horse priced at between Evens and 6/5 is a 45p deduction, and one between 9/2 and 11/2 is a 15p deduction. Withdrawn horses at over 14/1 do not trigger a rule 4.

A final note to betting shop punters. Bookmakers make millions of pounds every year on bets that are voided by non-runners but where the punter never collects his returned stake. This happens with bets when the punter just glances at the race winner and throws his slip away in disgust, without checking if his selection ran. It also happens where a non-runner in a multiple bets, generates a slip with a minor return. The punter either can’t be bothered going to collect it or feels embarrassed to do so. Don’t, it’s your money.

FAQs

What happens if you bet on a non runner?

If you place a bet on a non-runner in a horse race, your bet typically undergoes certain adjustments depending on the specific rules of the bookmaker or betting platform. Generally, your stake may be refunded or your bet may be transferred to the favourite horse in the race. It’s advisable to check the terms and conditions of the bookmaker you’ve placed your bet with, as their policies may differ. Keep in mind that betting rules can vary, and it’s important to be aware of how your chosen bookmaker handles non-runners to understand the implications for your bet.

Do you get your money back if a horse refuses to race?

Indeed, if a horse declines to participate in a race by refusing to start, it is commonly classified as a non-runner. In such instances, bookmakers often have provisions in place that allow bettors to have their stakes returned. This practice ensures that punters aren’t penalised due to circumstances beyond their control. Remember, the precise procedures can vary amongst bookmakers, so reviewing their specific terms and conditions is recommended to ascertain the exact course of action for such occurrences.

What is the rule 4 for non runner no bet?

Rule 4 pertains to the deduction of odds when a horse is withdrawn from a race, impacting the potential payouts for winning bets. However, in the context of “non-runner no bet,” this rule typically doesn’t apply. “Non-runner no bet” means that if you place a bet on a horse in an ante-post market (a bet made before the final declarations of the race), and that horse subsequently becomes a non-runner, your stake is returned to you. No deductions are made from your potential winnings, unlike in standard betting where Rule 4 deductions can occur when a horse is withdrawn. This provision is designed to offer more protection to punters in the case of non-runners, providing greater certainty in your betting arrangements.


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