Perth’s 2.40 has quietly turned into a fascinating tactical puzzle rather than a straightforward handicap. On paper, it’s a typical Class 4 over 2m4f on good ground—but the likely pace (or lack of it) could decide everything.

Timeform’s projection of a weakly run race is key. Perth often rewards those who can hold a position and jump cleanly rather than grind it out from the back. In that context, this isn’t shaping up as a stamina test—it’s more about efficiency, track position, and timing the move.

That angle slightly shifts the focus away from the obvious “strong stayer” types. Buy Some Time, for example, brings the best piece of form in the race—his Punchestown win—but he’s typically at his best when the race is truly run. If this turns tactical, he could find himself outpaced at a crucial stage.

Instead, the race begins to favour those who can travel comfortably near the pace. Soldier’s Leap fits that mould. He arrives in form after a strong second at Stratford and looks the type who can sit handy and quicken. The question is stamina, but in a steadily run race, that concern is reduced.

Heard That is another who comes into it under this scenario. He has solid Perth form, stays further, and shaped well when second last time. If he can build on that, he’s a credible threat.

The interesting wildcard is So Many Roads. He lacks the class of some rivals but is well treated, carries a light weight, and could be ideally positioned if this becomes tactical. He’s the type who can sneak into contention when others are caught out of position.

In the end, this looks less about who stays best and more about who gets the run of the race. In that setup, siding with race position over raw ability makes sense.

Verdict: Soldier’s Leap
Value angle: So Many Roads