Constitution resumes galloping

Constitution, the winner of the Florida Derby in March, has resumed galloping at WinStar Farm in Versailles, Ky., and is scheduled to return to trainer Todd Pletcher’s barn at Saratoga in early August, said WinStar president Elliott Walden.

Constitution underwent surgery to have a screw implanted into a shin fracture shortly after it was announced April 19 that the colt was injured and would not make the Kentucky Derby.

“His recovery has gone very well,” said Walden. “I’d expect he might be up to a breeze in about three weeks.”

Constitution, by Tapit, is undefeated in three career starts. He is co-owned by WinStar and Twin Creeks Racing.

** Ellis Park opened its 29-day meet amid beautiful weather Thursday in Henderson, Ky., with jockey Didiel Osorio and apprentice Juan Saez riding two winners apiece on an eight-race card.

Back-to-back allowances (races 6 and 7) highlight an eight-race Sunday card that begins at 12:50 p.m. Central. Ellis moves to its regular three-day schedule (Friday through Sunday) next week.