In the context of fixed odds betting in racing, it's common practice across the industry for deductions to be applied due to non-starters, known as 'scratchings'.

These deductions are taken from the potential winnings as a certain cent amount per dollar, effectively acting as a percentage decrease. Whether it's horse racing, harness racing, or greyhound racing, your bet may be reduced if a scratching occurs after you've placed your bet. It's important to note that scratchings before your bet do not affect it.

All final field scratching’s will incur a deduction to eligible fixed odds bets. A fixed odds bet is eligible for a deduction if the relevant scratching occurs after the bet has been placed. Any scratching’s from before the bet is placed does not impact the bet.

To illustrate, consider placing a $10 bet at fixed odds of $2.50. If scratchings happen before your bet, they are irrelevant. However, scratchings after your bet could lead to a deduction, let's say 20 cents on the dollar. In this scenario:

1.     Your initial potential winnings are calculated by multiplying your stake by the odds ($10 x $2.50 = $25).

2.     If a 20% deduction is applicable, this amount is then reduced by the deduction percentage of the potential payout (20% of $25, which is $5).

3.     Your final payout would then be the potential payout minus the deducted amount ($25 - $5 = $20).

The specific deduction amounts can often be found on the race card alongside the scratched participants and will also be reflected in your winnings if such deductions are applied.