Smooth Deal was the top priced yearling of his year, $240,000. He was looking a bargain early when he slaughtered the opposition in the Young Guns. Then the wheels fell off. After several disappointing performances, interrupted by various veterinary procedures, he was sold to Victoria where his form has been hot and cold. Yesterday's run was much better but if he was anything near his 2yo best he would have motored straight past the winner. Hope he is coming back because he was certainly an exciting youngster.