If you want to try out horse racing pools, a Placepot bet can be an exciting option that adds a layer of entertainment to your selections.
Many bettors who opt for a Placepot bet may wonder what happens if they have chosen a non-runner in their selections.
In this blog post, we’ll explain what a non-runner is, what happens if you have a non-runner in a placepot and the rules surrounding non-runners in Placepots.
What Does “Non-Runner” Mean?
In horse racing, a “non-runner” is a common term that describes a horse that was due to participate in a race but is withdrawn before the race begins.
The reasons for withdrawal can vary, ranging from last-minute injuries to issues regarding the horse’s fitness or changes in track conditions that aren’t suitable for the horse. It’s a precaution taken to ensure the horse’s welfare, as rushing an unfit horse into a race could cause harm.
You may feel a bit confused if you’ve included a non-runner in a bet like the Placepot; however, there’s no need for concern as bookmakers have clear rules and processes in place to deal with non-runners.
Betting is all about understanding the terminology and the processes involved, which makes your betting experience smoother and more enjoyable.
What Happens If Your Horse Is a Non-Runner In a Placepot?
A Placepot is a popular type of pool bet in horse racing and is offered by the Tote. You pick a horse to place in each of the first six races at a meeting, which keeps the excitement going throughout the day, as you need your picks to continue placing in every race to potentially win.
If one of your chosen horses is a non-runner, your selection for that particular race automatically defaults to the Starting Price Favourite. This is the horse that has the best odds at the start of the race, acting as a safeguard, meaning you don’t need to take any additional action to protect your bet.
This substitution system is designed to ensure fairness and continuity so you can still participate in the pool without needing to adjust your bet manually.
This ensures your bet remains active and gives you a chance at winning the prize pool, even when things change unexpectedly. Understanding how non-runners are managed allows you to focus on enjoying the races instead of amending your bet in challenging circumstances.
Placepot Non-Runner Rules
When you’re placing a bet on a Placepot, understanding how non-runners are handled can bring peace of mind. Keep reading to discover the essential rules of Placepots:
Starting Price Favourite Substitution
If your selected horse doesn’t run, your choice automatically switches to the Starting Price Favourite. This is the horse that, according to odds, is most favoured when the race begins, meaning your bet remains active without you needing to do anything.
Joint Favourites
There may be more than one horse with the same odds, known as joint favourites. In this situation, the horse with the lowest racecard number usually becomes your substitute. This method gives a straightforward decision, avoiding any confusion about which horse stands in for yours.
Variations Across Operators
Although many operators use these common rules, it’s wise to check the specifics wherever you’re betting. Rules may differ slightly between operators or racecourses, so taking a few moments to confirm these details helps you avoid any unexpected changes during your betting experience.
Do You Get Your Money Back If Your Horse Is a Non-Runner?
When it comes to horse racing, understanding what happens to your wager if your horse doesn’t compete is vital for any bettor. If you’ve placed a single bet on a horse that is withdrawn before the race begins, the usual policy is to return your stake.
This is because you’re not at fault for the horse not running, and most bookmakers recognise this by refunding your bet. It’s a reassurance that your funds are protected in such cases.
The situation becomes more interesting with the Placepot, as this type of bet involves picking horses to place in the first six races of a meeting.
With Placepot bets, there’s no direct refund if a horse is a non-runner. Instead, your pick is automatically replaced with the Starting Price Favourite, allowing your bet to remain active and offering a chance to potentially still win.
For both single bets and Placepots, it’s wise to check with the operator you’re betting with, as specific rules may vary slightly. Familiarising yourself with these details can help you manage expectations and avoid unexpected surprises, making your betting experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Always remember to gamble responsibly for an enjoyable betting experience. Ensure your betting experience remains safe and entertaining by setting limits to your playing time, sticking to a strict budget within your means and making use of any responsible gambling tools available.
