Churchill DownsThu, May 02, 2024

Group 2 winner CARL SPACKLER (9) returns from a lay-off of eight months after back-to-back wins to close last campaign, the latest over 1m1/2f in Group 3 class at Saratoga (Turf). Will find this much easier. Sure to be there at the finish. Group 3 winner SMOKIN' T (4) returned to winning form last start, scoring by a nose over this journey at Listed level at Gulfstream Park (Turf). Has a good record at this trip with two wins and two placings. Leading player. Group 1 placegetter ICE CHOCOLAT (6) is coming off a last-start seventh, beaten 1.75 lengths, over 1m at Gulfstream Park. Must be respected. Multiple Group 3 placegetter TALK OF THE NATION (10) is a promising galloper who resumes from a break. Last raced when second over 1m in the G3 Bryan Station Stakes at Keeneland (Turf) six months ago. Has never been out of the placings when resuming from two tries. Has good early speed so should take up a forward position. Not to be discounted.