Churchill DownsSun, September 22, 2024

Group 2 placegetter ETHEREAL ROAD (7) returned from a lay-off two months ago when he was beaten 8 lengths into ninth over 1m at Ellis Park. Strips fitter and can take this out. LUCENCY (3) finished out of the money two starts back then he was never in contention and was beaten 10 lengths when fifth over 7f at Saratoga seven-and-a-half weeks ago. Has the ability to figure prominently. CAWKAB (1) finished fourth when resuming two runs back then progressed nicely last time out after being in contention on the corner to score by 0.8 lengths over 1m at Ellis Park (Dirt). Finds a tougher race but another win beckons. FIRST STRIKE (6) didn't make an impact at his last run before going for a lay-off on April 14 finishing seventh and beaten 23 lengths over 1m4f at Keeneland (Turf). Makes plenty of appeal.