Daily hard — 2026-10-13

Across

1. 2. A person who is adept at handling horses or tough situations. (10)
2. 6. Weighted ball often used in fitness workouts (12)
3. 7. These crispy morsels originated in the 1950s in Idaho. (9)
4. 11. Media darling born in 2023, symbol of rhino conservation. (6)
5. 14. What knights often wore for protection in battle (9)
6. 15. Begin to exert oneself physically (11)
7. 16. Method used to date ancient organic materials (12)
8. 17. Judicial body that reviewed Indigenous rights recently in Alberta. (12)
9. 18. Brand often associated with cold-pressed beverages (10)

Down

1. 1. What a weightlifter does at the gym for muscle building. (9)
2. 2. What you might experience during a communication blackout (12)
3. 3. A fast or rapid movement often described as a dash. (10)
4. 4. 1982 album by the King of Pop, featuring 'Billie Jean'. (10)
5. 5. Lower quality dairy product used for cheese making. (10)
6. 8. Leader of Brazil from 2019 to 2022, known for his controversial policies (9)
7. 9. This phrase denotes an undeniable statement or reality. (8)
8. 10. Sense of community and belonging in a place. (10)
9. 12. People who explore underwater without breathing gear. (10)
10. 13. Term for a variable that compensates for uncertainty (11)