Ellis ParkSat, July 18, 2026

BLACKSMITH (10) returned from a lay-off three-and-a-half weeks ago when he was beaten 6 lengths into fifth over 6½f at Churchill Downs. Strips fitter and can bounce back. PENALTY BOX (5) got off the mark when resuming from a lay-off over 7f at Churchill Downs (Dirt) last start, scoring by 1. 3 lengths. Big chance to go back-to-back. HIGH CEILING (1) was returning from a break last time out and proved too classy, scoring by 1. 3 lengths over 7f at Churchill Downs (Dirt). Fitter for that last hitout and he looms as a significant threat. ZAT'S THE ONE (2) returned from a lay-off six-and-a-half weeks ago when he was beaten 3. 5 lengths into fourth over 6½f at Churchill Downs. Strips fitter and should be thereabouts.