Daily hard — 2026-10-17

Across

1. 2. Middle Eastern airline based in Dubai. (8)
2. 4. Dismal anniversary remembered in various cultures (7)
3. 7. Technique popularised on TV talent shows (7)
4. 12. Event hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania in 2027. (5)
5. 14. Found myself fortunate in a tricky situation. (10)
6. 15. Catchy phrases or snippets from a statement, often reused. (10)
7. 16. Artistic sport involving music and dance elements (9)
8. 18. A person who is adept at handling horses or tough situations. (10)
9. 19. These joyous eruptions are sometimes called belly shakers. (11)
10. 20. Essential nutrient often measured in parts per million. (12)

Down

1. 1. A magician's phrase for making something vanish or appear. (12)
2. 3. Additional advantages or rewards for effort (11)
3. 5. People who explore underwater without breathing gear. (10)
4. 6. The US Treasury Secretary during the Civil War (12)
5. 8. Used in sonar technology to determine distances underwater. (10)
6. 9. Slang term for an overly talkative person. (10)
7. 10. Comic book character often paired with a caped crusader (6)
8. 11. What knights often wore for protection in battle (9)
9. 13. Famous American whiskey brand known for its bold flavour. (10)
10. 17. These crispy morsels originated in the 1950s in Idaho. (9)