Droopys Flare is selected despite the structural concern of trap one at this distance in this grade, because the form record demands it. Six consecutive maximum-performance wins, a pace rank that is the strongest in the field, the fastest best time at this trip of any runner in this race, and the highest average performance across the recent record — this is an exceptional staying animal in the form of his life. Two trials ahead of this run both produced wins, confirming the preparation matches the form. Trainer Parker has a striking winning percentage that adds further confidence in the professional environment this dog is being produced from. The trap one concern at 712m OR2 is genuine — the data shows no wins from that position in this grade at this distance from seven attempts — but the sample size is small, and more importantly, the closing runner profile reduces the damage. A dog who does not need to lead from the first bend, but can travel efficiently from wherever position is held and then close relentlessly, is less dependent on the trap than an early-pace runner would be. Droopys Flare can come from off the pace. The form is so dominant that it overrides the structural concern at this odds differential, but it must be acknowledged that this is a tentative call and the trap position introduces genuine risk.