The Robert Smerdon-trained colt Hard Promise is promising. Spelled after his debut second in a 2YO, C&G (1050m) at Morphettville in April, he resumed with an easy win in a 3YO Maiden (1000m) at Cranbourne on 30 December and then backed that up with a strong win over older opposition here. He began well, worked in the early stages before sharing the lead from the 800m. He then raced to the front at the home turn and was untroubled from that point to win impressively.