Ellis Park Spot Plays for Monday, July 29

Race 2 – ETERNAL FORCE (#6) (10-1) Ran better than he has in months last out, finishing second at 23-1. Hung three-wide while pressing into a fast pace, he was pushed out six-wide on the turn. He tried the leader but could not get by late. The winner that day was Ruler of the Nile, who has two wins since, including an upset score in a Saratoga allowance. This guy earned the class hike. Also consider You’re Killin Me (#3) (5-2) and Day Dreamer (#5) (2-1) in the gimmicks and for multi-race purposes. Race 7 – PORTAL (#8) (9-2) Already a four-time winner, it’s tough to believe this talented gelding is still eligible under first-level allowance conditions. He’s won three of his last four starts, edging Eskenforit, the horse who famously “won” the Indiana Derby (G3) without a rider, last time out. He should be forwardly placed over a 1 1/2-turn mile that should fit him like a glove. Also consider Cheytac (#7) (20-1), Mo Zone (#4) (5-1), Franknjymme (#3) (8-1) and Summer Revolution (#11) (7-2) in the gimmicks and for multi-race purposes. Race 8 – CLASSICAL MAGIC (#3) (6-1) This three-year-old daughter of Magician ran some deceivingly good races over the Fair Grounds turf this past winter, and a pair of dirt clunkers thereafter should not be held against her. She finished fifth two starts back at Churchill Downs, but ran better than it looks. After losing three lengths at the start, she was four-wide on the first turn. Rank early on, she made a middle move while three-wide, drew even on the turn and was bothered while flattening. She returned to wire a maiden claiming field at Indiana Grand and now resurfaces at Ellis Park in a race that fits her like a glove. Also consider A. P. Princess (#2) (3-1), Sistas Ready (#8) (9-2) and Channel Princess (#7) (5-1) in the gimmicks and for multi-race purposes. PHOTO: Ellis Park (c) Coady Photography/Ellis Park