We know, cetrtainly after both failed in the Travers Stakes, that Kentucky Derby winner Always Dreaming and Preakness winner Cloud Computing are nowhere near their early season form. Nevertheless, it was still a feather in Pavel's cap that he tangled so gamely with them, and was involved in a three way photo with them, in Saratoga's Jim Dandy Stakes. Especially so when you consider that the Jim Dandy was only the second start of Pavel's career, first start beyond a sprint distance, and first start against winners.

Well, Pavel certainly benefitted from his Jim Dandy experience, and in an easier spot today, he just crushed his field in the Smarty Jones Stakes at Parx.

Granted, Pavel didn't face an imposing group in the Smarty Jones. Wood Memorial runner up and Dwyer third place finisher Battalion Runner, and West Virginia Derby winner Colonelsdarktemper were his main opponents. Still, it was impossible not to be impressed with the way Pavel settled so kindly early, ran away from his field in upper stretch as if they were standing still, and scored by plenty - eased up.

And let's not forget, this was only Pavel's third career start. Imagine what he might do when he gets the hang of this game.