The third day of Royal Ascot promises unforgettable action, headlined by the historic Gold Cup. Expert analyst Kevin Blake has identified three horses that could light up the card, including a tempting 22/1 shot in one of the week’s most competitive handicaps. With the meeting at its halfway point, Blake’s selections offer a mix of value and form, ideal for punters seeking an edge on a high-class afternoon of flat racing.
Kevin Blake’s Three Picks for Day Three
Blake, a respected voice on Sky Sports Racing, has cast his eye across Thursday’s programme and settled on runners in the Chesham Stakes (2.30), Britannia Stakes (5.00) and Hampton Court Stakes (5.35). Each selection carries a clear rationale, blending track suitability, recent improvement and proven stamina – a vital asset over Ascot’s stiff, straight course.
Jamestown: Britannia Hope at 22/1
The Britannia Stakes is notoriously difficult to solve, but Blake believes JAMESTOWN is overpriced. The son of Ulysses has progressed with every start, most notably when beaten a short-head by Bobby McGee in a strong Naas handicap over a mile in April. He then destroyed a maiden field at Dundalk by seven lengths, forcing a 6lb rise that just squeezed him into the bottom of this race.
“His trainer David Marnane has a wonderful record in handicaps at this meeting, having won the Wokingham and the Royal Hunt Cup in the past. It wouldn’t be at all surprising if Jamestown makes a bold bid.”
Marnane’s expertise with Irish sprinters at Ascot adds intrigue, and with conditions likely to suit, Jamestown could outrun his odds dramatically.
Nola Soul: Stamina Key in Chesham Stakes
The opening Chesham Stakes over seven furlongs demands a horse that stays further, and Blake sees that quality in NOLA SOUL. Trained by Fozzie Stack, the Justify colt won his debut at Leopardstown in style, lengthening impressively through the final furlong. Blake notes his “long and slow stride” is ideally suited to Ascot’s testing straight. The form of that maiden is already producing winners, and with expected improvement, he rates a live outsider.
Endorsement: Hampton Court Form Pick
In the Group 3 Hampton Court Stakes, Blake sides with Aidan O’Brien’s ENDORSEMENT. The Wootton Bassett colt has consistently progressed, running close to Derby winner Christmas Day and the third James J Braddock in trials at Leopardstown. Dropped in grade last time, he bolted up by seven lengths. Now back up in class but dropping to a stiff ten furlongs, Endorsement is the form selection under Ryan Moore.
“He very much looks to be the form pick and can continue his progression with another success here.”
O’Brien’s three-year-olds often peak at this meeting, and Endorsement fits the profile perfectly.
Key Takeaways
- Kevin Blake’s headline bet is Jamestown at 22/1 in the Britannia Stakes, backed by a top trainer’s Royal Ascot record.
- Nola Soul appeals as a stamina-laden improver in the Chesham Stakes.
- Aidan O’Brien’s Endorsement brings standout form to the Hampton Court Stakes.
- Day three’s feature, the Gold Cup, adds further prestige; Blake’s tips focus on value-laden undercards.
- All three picks are likely to appreciate Ascot’s unique demands of stamina and a strong pace.
Quick Facts
Meeting: Royal Ascot 2026, Day Three (Thursday)
Highlight Race: Gold Cup
Tip 1: Nola Soul – Chesham Stakes (2.30)
Tip 2: Jamestown – Britannia Stakes (5.00) at 22/1
Tip 3: Endorsement – Hampton Court Stakes (5.35)
Analyst: Kevin Blake, Sky Sports Racing
Source: Sky Sports